Harris Schechtman, National Director of Transit for Sam Schwartz Engineering, was our guest for the final BWRC Breakfast Talk of the semester (Mr. Schechtman replaced Mr. Schwartz, the originally scheduled speaker). Mr. Schechtman, who has over 40 years of experience in the field of transportation design and operation, spoke about the Brooklyn-Queens Connector (BQX), a proposed streetcar line that would link Astoria, Queens to Sunset Park, Brooklyn.

Mr. Schechtman, whose company has been conducting a study of the proposed line, presented a number of findings in favor of the BQX, arguing that it would ease congestion on crowded or near-capacity bus and subway lines; provide equitable access for Brooklyn and Queens residents to jobs along the waterfront corridor; enhance connectivity to already-existing transportation and infrastructure; and promote economic development overall. Despite the strong interest evinced by audience members, the proposal met with some skepticism from community members who are wary about its impact on Brooklyn Heights, Sunset Park, and other waterfront neighborhoods.

Regardless, the event was successful in bringing together transportation advocates, urban planners, and community members, who turned out in large numbers despite the driving rain. We at BWRC look forward to planning events on transportation and other pertinent waterfront issues for the coming academic year.