Assemblyman Michael Tannousis (R,C-Staten Island) held a press conference to voice his firm opposition to the New York City Department of Transportation’s (NYC DOT) proposed redesign of Father Capodanno Boulevard, a plan that has raised significant safety and traffic concerns among local residents and community leaders.

The proposed redesign, which mirrors the controversial Seaview Avenue redesign, has sparked widespread concerns that it will exacerbate traffic congestion and compromise safety on one of Staten Island’s most vital roads. According to Tannousis, the plan will severely hinder vehicular flow, causing backups on an already heavily trafficked route. Residents, elected officials, and local businesses have expressed strong opposition to the proposed changes, which they believe prioritize unnecessary bike lanes over the community’s real needs.

“The DOT’s proposed changes to Father Capodanno Boulevard are misguided and could have serious consequences for the safety of Staten Islanders,” said Assemblyman Tannousis. “Rather than addressing the pressing concerns of residents, such as improving traffic flow and ensuring the safety of drivers and pedestrians, the DOT’s plan creates additional challenges by cutting down vital lanes and introducing a bike lane where one is not needed, especially with the existing bike lane on the nearby FDR Boardwalk.”

Calling on DOT to reconsider, Tannousis emphasized that the redesign would negatively affect commuters, emergency response times, and overall quality of life for Staten Islanders.