Sometime after 4PM on Thursday, a cab plowed into the recreational lane on Central Park's loop drive, striking and seriously injuring two runners. The driver, as well as the victims, were sent to the hospital for emergency care. In the wake of this serious crash, bicycling and pedestrian advocates ask the City to take immediate steps to prevent more injuries.

"This crash was waiting to happen," said John Kaehny, Executive Director of Transportation Alternatives. "For too long, the City has use Central Park as a traffic-relief valve instead of a true Park. Thanks to speeding cars in the Park, runners, skaters, cyclists face mortal peril each time they visit. New Yorkers don't get much green space, and to have just one small "recreational" lane for everyone only exacerbates the dangers and the overcrowding."

Transportation Alternatives calls on the Mayor to implement a car-free policy for a 3-month trial period, starting in May, for Central Park. During that time, the Park's adjacent neighborhoods can be monitored for any effects. Stepped-up police traffic enforcement is also needed.

Currently, the Park is closed to cars on weekends. On the East Side between 59th St. and 72nd St., one of the most popular areas for Park users, cars are prohibited only between 7 and 10 pm weekday evenings. The remainder of the Park's main loop drive is closed to cars from 10 am to 3 pm, and from 7 to 10 pm on weekdays.

"Central Park provides an escape for millions seeking peace, play, and a bit of nature, and will only grow more popular as NYC rebounds economically," added Kaehny. "The City is given over to motor vehicle traffic everywhere, why not give Central Park back to the people?"