Sinkhole at busy Mott Haven intersection raises safety concerns among residents
The sinkhole is located at Morris Avenue and East 171st Street, where neighbors say vehicles have little time to avoid it.
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A large sinkhole in the middle of a busy Mott Haven intersection is raising safety concerns among residents, who say the roadway poses a risk to drivers, bicyclists and motorcyclists.
The sinkhole is located at Morris Avenue and East 171st Street, where neighbors say vehicles have little time to avoid it. Community activist Sydney Flores said he placed a traffic cone over the hole in an effort to warn motorists and prevent accidents.
"It's dangerous because if cars swerve at the last minute and go into oncoming traffic, they can crash," Flores said. "A bicycle, scooter or motorcycle rider who doesn't see it at night could seriously get hurt."
Nearby resident Mercedes said she recently witnessed a vehicle drive into the sinkhole, damaging a tire.
"It's a problem right here," she said. "When a car went into it, the tire was broken."
News 12 observed that the sinkhole extends several feet into the ground, leaving drivers only seconds to react before reaching it.
Another resident, Jamie, said he is frustrated with what he views as a slow response to neighborhood infrastructure issues.
"When you call the city, they take a long time," he said. "You have to keep calling and calling before they fix it."
Residents say they hope repairs are made quickly so motorists, cyclists and pedestrians can safely travel through the area.
News 12 reached out to the city's Department of Environmental Protection. A spokesperson said crews will be sent to assess the situation.
