If Transit Workers Strike, Commuters Face A Chilly Morning

ny1.newsx.cc

If Transit Workers Strike, Commuters Face A Chilly Morning
12/15/2002 03:08 PM
By: NY1 News

If transit workers walk off the job, many commuters say they'll get to work the old-fashioned way: on foot. But with chilly temperatures and wet snow in the forecast, experts are urging precautions for those people unaccustomed to exercise.

Red Cross spokeswoman Leslie Gottlieb says walkers and bikers should wear comfortable shoes, dress in layers, and bring along a hat and gloves. They should also consider carrying snack bars or hot liquid in a thermos if they're going to be traveling a long distance.

Red Cross volunteers will be on many streets to help move people along.

“We will be deploying emergency vehicles that will hand out snacks and hot chocolate to people at various sites,” says Gottlieb, “and we certainly will be having mental health Red Cross volunteers available at strategic locations to help commuters if they're stressed or upset about what's going on, to give them a little support or a little advice.”

Bikers should always wear a helmet, and Gottlieb recommends wearing reflective gear after dark.

Numerous bridges between Manhattan and the other boroughs have lanes for pedestrians and bicycles that would remain available during a strike. A list of bike- and pedestrian-friendly crossings can be found on NY1's Strike Contingency Page.