60-Year-Old Cyclist Dies After Cross Bay Boulevard Collision

NEW YORK — A 60-year-old cyclist died Sunday morning following a collision with an MTA bus on Cross Bay Boulevard in Queens. The tragic incident unfolded near the intersection of Cross Bay Boulevard and 157th Avenue, a notorious stretch for traffic, prompting immediate calls for enhanced road safety measures. NYPD officials identified the deceased as Howard Berman, a long-time resident of Ozone Park known for his daily rides through the area.

The preliminary investigation by the NYPD Highway District Collision Investigation Squad indicates Berman was struck around 8:30 AM while attempting to cross the busy thoroughfare. The MTA bus, operating on the Q53 route, was traveling southbound when the collision occurred. Emergency Medical Services personnel pronounced Berman dead at the scene, despite efforts by passersby and first responders.

Unraveling the Collision Details

NYPD spokesperson Detective Maria Rodriguez confirmed that surveillance footage from nearby businesses along Cross Bay Boulevard is being reviewed. The footage could provide crucial insights into the sequence of events leading up to the fatal impact. Witnesses reported seeing the cyclist attempting to navigate a complex turn at the heavily trafficked intersection.

The bus driver, whose name has not yet been released, remained at the scene and cooperated fully with investigators. No charges have been filed as of Monday afternoon, but the investigation remains active and ongoing. The MTA issued a brief statement extending condolences to the victim's family and affirming their commitment to assisting the police inquiry.

Community Reacts to Tragic Loss

The tight-knit communities along Cross Bay Boulevard, including Howard Beach and Ozone Park, have expressed profound sadness over Berman’s death. Neighbors described him as an avid cyclist and a friendly face often seen enjoying the scenic routes connecting the residential areas to the Shore Parkway greenway. His passing has reignited local discussions about pedestrian and cyclist safety on the wide, often high-speed boulevard.

“Howard was a fixture here, always on his bike, rain or shine,” remarked Eleanor Vance, president of the Howard Beach Civic Association, during a Monday evening community meeting. “This tragedy underscores the urgent need for safer bike lanes and clearer signage along Cross Bay. We've been advocating for years.” She added that the boulevard's current infrastructure often leaves cyclists feeling vulnerable.

Call for Enhanced Cyclist Safety Measures

Advocates for pedestrian and cyclist safety are renewing their calls for the Department of Transportation (DOT) to implement comprehensive safety upgrades along Cross Bay Boulevard. Concerns specifically focus on inadequate bike lane infrastructure, the absence of protected crossings at major intersections, and speeding vehicles. The boulevard serves as a critical artery, but its design has not kept pace with the growing number of cyclists and pedestrians.

Local Council Member Joann Ariola told reporters that her office is in communication with the DOT and NYPD to explore immediate and long-term solutions. These include speed cameras, additional traffic calming measures, and a review of intersection layouts. The DOT previously conducted a safety study of the area in 2024, identifying several high-risk zones, but significant changes have yet to materialize.

History of Traffic Incidents on Boulevard

Cross Bay Boulevard has a documented history of traffic incidents, making it a priority for local safety organizations. Data from the NYC Department of Transportation’s Vision Zero initiative shows that there were 27 reported bicycle-involved collisions on the boulevard in 2025 alone, with five resulting in serious injury. The corridor’s width and the prevalence of commercial traffic contribute to its hazard profile.

Residents and advocacy groups have frequently petitioned local authorities for improvements, emphasizing the danger posed by high vehicle speeds and the lack of dedicated, protected cycling infrastructure. The area around 157th Avenue, in particular, handles significant cross-traffic from residential streets. These continuous efforts highlight a sustained community concern over transportation safety, as discussed in Queens traffic safety reforms.

Impact on Daily Commutes and Local Life

The fatal collision has cast a pall over the daily routines of residents who rely on Cross Bay Boulevard for commuting, shopping, and recreation. Many cyclists use the boulevard to access the picturesque Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge and the Rockaways. The perceived danger now adds an extra layer of anxiety to these journeys, impacting local quality of life significantly.

Howard Berman’s passing serves as a grim reminder of the stakes involved in urban planning and traffic enforcement. The community awaits further details from the ongoing investigation and hopes for swift action from city agencies. Many are looking for concrete commitments to prevent similar tragedies in the future, urging a dedicated focus on vulnerable road users.

What are the immediate next steps in the investigation?

NYPD’s Collision Investigation Squad continues to gather evidence, including reviewing surveillance footage and interviewing additional witnesses. The bus driver underwent standard toxicology testing, and the MTA is conducting its internal review. Results of the investigation will be made public once conclusive.

How can residents get involved in advocating for safety improvements?

Residents are encouraged to contact their local Council Member Joann Ariola’s office and attend upcoming community board meetings. The Howard Beach Civic Association is also organizing a petition and planning a public forum to address Cross Bay Boulevard safety concerns directly with city officials. Specific proposals for infrastructure changes are being drafted for submission to the DOT.

Has the MTA released a statement regarding the incident?

The MTA released a brief statement confirming their cooperation with the NYPD investigation and expressing condolences to the victim’s family. They have not commented on the specific circumstances of the collision while the police inquiry is active. Further details may emerge as their internal review progresses.

What types of safety improvements are being considered for Cross Bay Boulevard?

Proposed improvements include the installation of protected bike lanes, enhanced pedestrian crossings with leading pedestrian intervals, additional speed enforcement cameras, and potential redesigns of key intersections. Officials are also exploring traffic calming measures, such as narrower lanes and curb extensions, to reduce vehicle speeds. These efforts are part of a broader NYC traffic safety reforms initiative.