Jul. 31, 2023 By Anthony Medina
In recognition of the growing issue of illegal moped and motorbike riders in the city, Councilman Robert Holden sent a letter to NYPD Chief of Department Jeffrey Maddrey and Chief of Patrol John Chell to initiate the launch of a targeted operation against illegal moped activity in his district, on Thursday, July 27.
Holden said illegal moped riders continue to drive recklessly, run red lights, and park illegally on the sidewalk. He also mentioned the busy commercial areas of Grand Avenue, Myrtle Avenue, Fresh Pond Road, and Metropolitan Avenue being riddled with mopeds.
“While the increase in moped use is not new, the situation has escalated dramatically in the past few months. My constituents and I have observed a significant number of mopeds being parked illegally in pedestrian walkways, bike lanes, and other restricted areas,” Holden wrote in his letter. “Additionally, there has been an alarming number of mopeds without visible license plates, which poses a serious safety risk and hinders law enforcement efforts.”
The benefits of conducting targeted towing efforts and regular patrols will better dissuade moped owners from parking on sidewalks and driving without license plates, Holden said. He also looks forward to working with the NYPD collaboratively.
“Furthermore, I believe that public awareness campaigns should accompany this initiative to educate businesses and the mopeds’ owners that parking regulations and proper licensing are taken seriously by our community residents,” Holden said.
Councilman Holden serves the neighborhoods of Glendale, Maspeth, Middle Village, Ridgewood, Woodhaven, and Woodside.