2025 At-Large Survey
At Bike Hoboken, we believe getting around our city should be safe, fun, and accessible, regardless of how you choose to move.
That’s why, every election year since 2017, we’ve asked Hoboken’s candidates where they stand on key transportation issues that matter to our community. While Bike Hoboken does not endorse any political candidates, we hope their responses will help you make an informed choice when casting your ballot.
How to Read the Questionnaire
This page groups each candidate’s responses by questions, to aid in comparing and contrasting answers. If you’d prefer to read responses grouped by each candidate, you can visit the link below:
All candidates appearing on this year’s ballot were invited to participate. Responses are listed in random order. Candidates were asked to follow these guidelines:
Yes/No questions: Answers should be direct, although “No” responses may include a brief explanation, limited to 50 words
Open response questions: Responses should be concise, limited to 100 words (approximately the length of these instructions). Answers should emphasize high-level priorities and processes rather than exhaustive policy positions.
[Editor’s Note: Mayoral Candidate Dini Ajmani and At-Large Candidates Kim Giddens and Shashi Khemlani from the A Fresh Start slate submitted a singular, collective response. Therefore, identical responses are being presented in this article.]
Infrastructure and Funding
1. Do you support funding the Vision Zero Safety Improvement Project on Willow Avenue (11th–16th Streets)? (Yes / No)
Dave Mello: Yes
Britta Ouano: Since a final design hasn’t been established and there is no available project cost breakdown, and won’t be until the design has been finalized, I’m not able to answer this question with confidence at this time.
Liz Urtecho: No
Steve Firestone: Yes
Carter Craft: Yes
Kim Giddens: Yes
Nicholas Gorka: Yes
Shashi Khemlani: Yes
Caitlin Layson: Yes
Laura Miani: At this point we do not have a final design. I would be supportive of safety improvements on Willow Ave, but I would want to see the final proposal.
Joe Quintero: Yes
Alfredo Veloce: Yes
2. Do you support Hoboken reauthorizing funding for Citi Bike? (Yes / No)
Dave Mello: Yes
Britta Ouano: Yes - I fully support reauthorizing Citi Bike. It’s essential for affordable, sustainable transit and reducing traffic. To ease rising costs, Hoboken should explore grants, better revenue-sharing with Lyft, and business sponsorships so residents benefit from the program without carrying the full financial burden.
Liz Urtecho: Yes
Steve Firestone: Yes
Carter Craft: Yes
Kim Giddens: Yes
Nicholas Gorka: Yes
Shashi Khemlani: Yes
Caitlin Layson: Yes
Laura Miani: Yes. We intend to renew however we should negotiate increases in rates, and we would push for limits on increases.
Joe Quintero: Yes
Alfredo Veloce: Yes
3. When negotiating new developments, should Hoboken prioritize space for additional parking spaces or prioritize additional housing units? (Parking / Housing)
Dave Mello: Neither
Britta Ouano: Both need to be balanced. I don’t believe new housing should be approved without accounting for parking. Every new residential unit should come with a parking plan, so development supports growth without worsening congestion or reducing quality of life for current residents.
Liz Urtecho: Depends on the development, its location and plan
Steve Firestone: Housing
Carter Craft: Housing
Kim Giddens: Parking. For many who live here, car ownership is a must. Many residents work in areas that are not well-connected by public transportation. Kids need to be driven to sports. Looking for parking has become a source of angst. Solving parking will be a top issue for me as mayor.
Nicholas Gorka: Parking
Shashi Khemlani: Parking. For many who live here, car ownership is a must. Many residents work in areas that are not well-connected by public transportation. Kids need to be driven to sports. Looking for parking has become a source of angst. Solving parking will be a top issue for me as mayor.
Caitlin Layson: Housing
Laura Miani: It would depend on the development… we need to balance housing needs and transportation access to determine which would be the more pressing need. For example, if a development is close to transit, parking would be less important and vice versa.
Joe Quintero: Housing
Alfredo Veloce: Housing
4. What would you do to improve the Hop? (Open Response)
Dave Mello: I would add routes and frequency of service. I would also consider whether it makes sense to continue it being a free service. Any fee should be nominal, but free might not be sensible to continue.
Britta Ouano: The Hop needs a proper PR campaign so residents know it’s free, reliable, and citywide. With a clearer understanding of fleet capacity, we can expand service frequency and coordination. By aligning Hop stops with public garages, parks, schools, and running it seven days a week, and not just weekdays, we’ll reduce street parking demand while bringing foot traffic to our busiest commercial and recreational areas.
Liz Urtecho: We need to expand the routes around the city, the routes need to be logical and we need to make people more aware of it. I know the seniors are very familiar with the hop and its routes, but most people don’t think it’s available to them.
Steve Firestone: I believe that Councilman Quintero is on the right track with his detailed plan to expand the HOP and simplify routes. I would also advocate more for looking at ways to expand public-private partnerships to encourage increased resident mobility. We have a lot of building shuttle buses that congregate around the PATH for a small number of users. Perhaps there is a better way to do this that engages the private sector and encourages more frequent and reliable service to Hoboken residents.
Carter Craft: 1. Go electric 2. Expand east-west service. 3. Add a Grocery Store Loop on weekends
Kim Giddens: Invest in some marketing about HOP. Newcomers to our city are generally unaware of this great facility. A few designated stops will be very helpful. “Stops for HOP”
Nicholas Gorka: Better marketing to the public regarding the Hop’s general existence as well as easily accessible information regarding its services. I would also look to implement Hop routes that target garage to city center locations as a way to encourage the usage of some of our more central and westward garages.
Shashi Khemlani: Invest in some marketing about HOP. Newcomers to our city are generally unaware of this great facility. A few designated stops will be very helpful. “Stops for HOP”
Caitlin Layson: The HOP is a valuable service, but it could work much better for residents. Instead of several long, winding routes that take 30 minutes or more to make a full loop, we should simplify the system into straightforward north/south and east/west routes that run more frequently and predictably. That way, people could truly “hop” across Hoboken with easy transfers, reliable timing, and better coverage for every neighborhood. Pairing this with evening and weekend service and real-time tracking would make the HOP a convenient, modern option for everyone, from seniors and families to commuters.
Laura Miani: I think the HOP is great in theory, however many residents don’t know enough about it and it is under utilized. I would update the routes to make them more “destination driven”. I think we should have a route that gets families to our various fields after school and on weekends… for example… Sinatra Park to Little League field… to Mama Johnson to 1600 Park and then back to Sinatra. We should also work with NJ Transit to have the Willow/Clinton line run “off peak” hours and on weekends. We can then free up the “Green hop” to do a different route that also goes to the SW Park.
Joe Quintero: I would expand HOP and simplify routes. Today we have 4-5 routes that circumnavigate the city every 30 minutes or so. A better system would have a series of routes that run north/south and east/west. For example, a Bloomfield/Garden Street route, a 1st/2nd Street route, and so on. This would enable residents to literally “hop” across the city via a series of buses that run regularly and in predictable routes.
Alfredo Veloce: Most importantly, better promote this incredible local public transportation option, many people are still unaware of how it works or what it is. The intranet site is clean and informative, but it should be promoted through both social media and with signs (including the route map) at dedicated pickup spots around town. Potentially expand to one late night route on the weekends as well (with an officer to ride along for safety).
Safety & Vision Zero
5. Traffic injuries in Hoboken have steadily declined over the past eight years, despite an uptick in 2024. What actions would you prioritize in the next phase of Vision Zero to continue this progress? (Open Response)
Dave Mello: Map crash data by location, time, and type of incident to identify persistent danger zones. I would also continue building corner bulb-outs, raised crosswalks, and daylighting (removing parking near corners) to improve sightlines and pedestrian safety.
Britta Ouano: We need stronger enforcement of e-bike rules to curb unsafe riding, while reimagining bike lanes as true protected routes in some areas. A continuous bike path around the city would give cyclists a safe, predictable option. As we upgrade streets, safety must be built into the design, with clearer traffic signage and better integration of bike, pedestrian, and vehicle needs.
Liz Urtecho: Vision Zero has been a great initiative for the city, but we need to relook at it. There might be more to consider and priorities might have changed over the past eight years while continuing the work that’s being done.
Steve Firestone: Vision Zero has been a tremendous success in Hoboken. However, we still have too many areas that are dangerous when we bring together bicycles, cars, e-bikes, pedestrians, strollers and others at certain intersections. To me, the next phase involves better planning and coordinating to ensure that public safety officials have a seat at the table in all of our discussions. We need to open up the process more so that residents can share their experiences and recommendations to make Hoboken a safer place for all.
Carter Craft: Work with delivery companies to stop clogging the “clear corners.” b. Use planters and wheeled garden beds to make the expanded sidewalks more productive for nature.
Kim Giddens: In some places, bollards are unnecessary and counterproductive to the goals of Vision Zero. Their presence removes availability of corner spots that an Uber driver or a delivery truck would use for in-and-out. Instead, they double park next to the bollards, making it impossible for pedestrians to see oncoming cars.
Nicholas Gorka: Expand enforcement at top crash intersections. Most traffic injuries happen in a small cluster of intersections and corridors. I’d focus resources on redesigning these dangerous areas and step up enforcement to ensure lasting safety improvements.
Shashi Khemlani: In some places, bollards are unnecessary and counterproductive to the goals of Vision Zero. Their presence removes availability of corner spots that an Uber driver or a delivery truck would use for in-and-out. Instead, they double park next to the bollards, making it impossible for pedestrians to see oncoming cars.
Caitlin Layson: I would focus on expanding community-based enforcement — where officers build relationships with residents and target the behaviors that put people most at risk. We should also use technology smartly, like camera-assisted enforcement in high-injury corridors, to discourage speeding and illegal turns without overburdening our police. Beyond enforcement, I’d prioritize better street design: clearer crosswalks, protected bike lanes, and curb extensions that slow down cars. And finally, education campaigns for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians alike, so everyone understands how to safely share our streets.
Laura Miani: Vision Zero should include e-bikes. We should enforce the current Test and Vest program and also have more stringent fines for e-bikes that run red lights and violate traffic laws. I also think we should encourage residents to report bike accidents caused by cars, even if they seem minor at the time.
Joe Quintero: We should continue to look for infrastructure improvements such as finally finishing the Green Circuit. However, we should continue to step up enforcement via a combination of adding community policing, code enforcement officers, and camera assisted enforcement.
Alfredo Veloce: Continue to build smart street infrastructure with multi-purpose bump outs (capture rainwater, aesthetically pleasing, oxygen) in place of the “corner sticks”, add speed bumps in school zones, and turning signals in a few places where there are already stoplights (ex. by the uptown carwash). Try to better enforce red light and stop sign running by all types of vehicles.
6. What steps would you take to improve safety for students walking or biking to school in Hoboken? (Open Response)
Dave Mello: I would advocate to identify and designate key walking and biking routes to each school, then upgrade them with more clearly designated bike lanes, improved sidewalks, and raised crosswalks.
Britta Ouano: To improve safety for students walking or biking to school, Hoboken must prioritize secure, protected bike racks at schools, smoother roads, and safer bike lanes supported by bike-specific traffic lights in school zones. Clearer crosswalks and signage are essential, along with strict 15 mph speed enforcement in school zones and increased police presence before and after school. Together, these measures create safer routes, predictable traffic flow, and peace of mind for families, making walking and biking to school both practical and safe.
Liz Urtecho: I would re-evaluate where we place crossing guards to ensure the dangerous intersections are covered. I would prioritize the “most likely” school routes for curb/corner changes. I also believe that the city needs to do more to work with the schools to educate the kids about pedestrian safety. Oftentimes, kids walk into a crosswalk without looking or on their phones.
Steve Firestone: There are certain times of the day when EVERYONE seems to be walking in Hoboken. The school drop-off and pick-up times obviously being the most highly concentrated. Hoboken could establish dedicated “student school routes” during peak student commuting hours. That way, the community could best align resources to the areas where students tend to be walking the most and at what times.
Carter Craft:
A. Focus on improving safe routes to school at elementary schools.
B. Expand bike + scooter parking.
C. create more play streets and play areas AT schools during the school day
D. Have HPD also focus on traffic enforcement in school zones.
E. Have Hoboken Parking increase enforcement near schools during the school day and after school hours.
Kim Giddens: We cannot rely on little ones to have the necessary judgement to foresee danger. Around the schools, we need protected bike lanes and secure sidewalks.
Nicholas Gorka: Safer crossings and calmer school streets. This includes stronger crosswalk visibility including the use of electronic lighting indicators, traffic calming (i.e. reduced speeds and enforcement during key time periods), and reliable crossing guards.
Shashi Khemlani: We cannot rely on little ones to have the necessary judgement to foresee danger. Around the schools, we need protected bike lanes and secure sidewalks.
Caitlin Layson: I would prioritize safer, more reliable routes around our schools, with clear crossings, better traffic calming, and consistent enforcement, so parents can feel confident their kids are safe. Building on what has worked, we need to keep investing in infrastructure and community awareness that protects pedestrians of all ages.
Laura Miani: Again enforcement of existing laws is crucial. We should explore areas where we may need additional crossing guards.
Joe Quintero: One thing to consider would be to establish dedicated “student school routes” during peak student commuting hours. The idea being to encourage pedestrians walking to and from schools to these routes and then focus our safety teams (crossing guards, police, etc.) on these routes as well. This could have the effect of separating pedestrian and vehicular traffic as much as possible and focusing public safety teams to points where they are most likely to intersect.
Alfredo Veloce: Pedestrian safety is most important because that is the most vulnerable type of traveler in town. There are a few intersections where a two-way stop should be added (ex. 9th by the high school field) and, as stated above, especially in school zones I would like to see speed bumps for cars and bikes. Programs to provide helmets/equipment/bikes for kids in need so they can ride safely (especially lower income who cannot afford the gear). Partner with public safety for safe riding courses.
Policy & Planning
7. Do you support the use of automated enforcement (e.g., cameras) to ticket illegally parked vehicles? (Yes / No)
Dave Mello: No
Britta Ouano: No
Liz Urtecho: Yes but it needs to be done with all stakeholders considered which might change where those locations are. We need more short term parking locations for drivers to run into a store so we don’t disadvantage our businesses. There needs to be signage and communication to the community. All of which were not done when this was rolled. It was an example of poor leadership.
Steve Firestone: Yes
Carter Craft: Yes
Kim Giddens: Yes - But it has to go hand-in-hand with providing 15-minute parking spots for in-and-out customers of our small businesses.
Nicholas Gorka: Yes. I am uneasy about this implementation but see the benefits in targeting enforcement of egregious and dangerous rule breakers. That being said, the methodology behind when and why a ticket gets issued needs to be made public. This should include common sense grace periods for ‘violators’ that are simply engaging in school pick-up or in-and-out small business patrons.
Shashi Khemlani: Yes - But it has to go hand-in-hand with providing 15-minute parking spots for in-and-out customers of our small businesses.
Caitlin Layson: Yes
Laura Miani: No
Joe Quintero: Yes
Alfredo Veloce: Yes
8. Do you support building a fully connected network of protected bike lanes through the interior of Hoboken, even if it means repurposing street or curb space? (Yes / No)
Dave Mello: No
Britta Ouano: While I like the idea, it’s not a reality for every street in Hoboken and an implementation like this should not take away from parking spaces on the street.
Liz Urtecho: Yes but I am not sure it is feasible. The streets need to be safe for everyone and that all needs of the community are considered. For example, we need to get emergency vehicles down streets. We would need to evaluate the parking needs on each street because we can’t eliminate all parking. Parklets are obstructing part of the curbs. It would be easier to have a bike lane around the perimeter.
Steve Firestone: Yes
Carter Craft: No. We need a better plan for this.
Kim Giddens: Yes
Nicholas Gorka: Yes
Shashi Khemlani: Yes
Caitlin Layson: Yes
Laura Miani: I think we need to look at the streets and see where it makes sense… some streets are very narrow..I think it makes sense on wider streets such as 15th or Sinatra.
Joe Quintero: Yes
Alfredo Veloce: Not no but would just need to see where and how the design would be. Support fully connected bike lanes (because otherwise what is the point), and protected ones where the street is wide enough. Need more information before committing to a yes.
9. Based on the findings of the Curb Reimagined Foundations Report (May 2025), what changes to curb space allocation would you advocate for, if any? (Open Response)
Dave Mello: I would advocate to increase the number of dedicated loading zones, especially in commercial corridors and near dense residential areas. Also to continue to use curb extensions, daylighting (eliminating parking near crosswalks), and buffer zones to minimize conflicts between parking and bikes and pedestrians.
Britta Ouano: I support more bike corrals and parking, but not at the expense of street parking or loading zones - they should be placed on sidewalks or outside businesses where space allows, with rack types tailored to each area. I also favor curb extensions and reduced curb radii for safer crossings, especially for strollers and children.
Liz Urtecho: We need to consider more short term parking options throughout the city. Washington Street as well as some neighborhoods.
Steve Firestone: The Curb Reimagined Foundations Report represented a real leap forward in terms of our understanding of how these important places in our community are being utilized. This is not a surprise to Hoboken residents, but many of our curbs are not being used properly, with people using intended temporary spaces for parking. Since our curbs are in short supply, we need to take every opportunity to ensure that each curb is a high performing curb, allowing for a mix of uses that activate the space.
Carter Craft: I need to study this more.
Kim Giddens: Reduce the number of permits the city gives out. For every parking space we have approximately two permits. In some parts of the city, the number of permits given out are 3.5 times the spaces available.
Nicholas Gorka: Reduce the number of permits the city gives out. We have double the number of permits as parking spaces. In some parts of the city there are 3x more permits than spaces available.
Shashi Khemlani: Reduce the number of permits the city gives out. For every parking space we have approximately two permits. In some parts of the city, the number of permits given out are 3.5 times the spaces available.
Caitlin Layson: I would start by identifying curb areas that show common issues and opportunities based on data reports. From there, I would assess the specific community needs for each space and determine the best strategy from curbside management programs, taking into account safety and how demand changes throughout the day.
Laura Miani: The study was very informative. The analysis of garage usage (which included 300 spots for the closed Garden St facility) shows that garages are mainly downtown. Further the usage study indicates that 42% of residents move their car less than 3x a week and 30% feel it is more convenient to park on the street than in a garage. With our exploding population, especially in the Northwest, we need to explore ways to incentivize residents to utilize a parking facility closer to where they live. Many times people circle around for parking and end up parking illegally on the street and getting a ticket, or paying for expensive overnight parking in a private garage.
Joe Quintero: I would focus on flexibility of curbside space. Our curb space is finite, so in some instances limiting some of its use to one purpose all day and everyday may not be the best choice. We should look to the community needs for the curb space in a particular area, how the needs change throughout the day, and implement policies that can adapt.
Alfredo Veloce: Two of the biggest takeaways about curb-side space allocation from the Foundations Report are that there needs to be better enforcement on bike lane blocking (and other illegal parking) and, with an increase in demand for loading zones across town we need to evaluate how to most efficiently use those spaces and if it is worth charging hourly for them. The maps on the report also illustrate a relatively untouched part of town underdevelopment, Northwest Hoboken, that we have the opportunity to design from the ground up.
10. How should Hoboken update policies and infrastructure to safely support the growing use of low-speed electric bicycles for deliveries? (Open Response)
Dave Mello: I would start by actually making sure the new administration fully implements and supports test and vest. I would advocate to create waiting areas for delivery drivers, and for the upping of ticketing of riders who do not obey our laws.
Britta Ouano: In 2023, NYC’s Local Law 115 set a $17.96/hour minimum for delivery workers, leading platforms to schedule riders in shifts. Hoboken could adopt a similar approach to limit overcrowding, while designating staging areas off Washington Street, impounding bikes left overnight at the PATH bike racks, enforcing 15 MPH limits, and advancing the Test & Vest program for stronger enforcement. These steps would balance fair pay, safety, and accessibility while keeping streets clear and functional.
Liz Urtecho: The city needs to enforce the e-vehicle ordinance to start. We need to determine how many delivery vehicles are needed in the city and work with the apps to limit the number. Right now we are over-saturated with e-delivery vehicles and they have no dedicated place to wait. The city needs to explore options.
Steve Firestone: E-bikes have become a common part of the Hoboken landscape in recent years. Many have issues with how they obey traffic laws, but the fact remains that many residents believe they provide a valuable service to the community. First and foremost, we need to ensure that our traffic laws are followed, regardless of the mode of transportation. E-vehicles must follow the same rules-of-the-road as everyone else, or they should risk losing their ability to do delivery business in Hoboken. Hoboken is not the wild west. We are a progressive city of more than 60,000 residents. We can come together to approve some common-sense regulations to ensure that delivery drivers are not incentivized to run red lights and go the wrong way down one-way streets.
Carter Craft:
A. Ramp up enforcement of Test and Vest requirements.
B. impound delivery bikes after the 2nd infraction
C. require additional safety training for offenders
D. Establish speed limits for ebikes
E. Increase enforcement of rules for lights and bells on ebikes.
Kim Giddens: The delivery bikers are rewarded for completing more deliveries and doing so on-time, and hence they break rules and ride at unsafe speeds. We should follow NYC’s lead and limit the number of delivery bikes per app in our city. This will take pressure off of the bikers themselves. I would also demand accountability from the apps to remove those bikers who break rules. Law enforcement should report the cell number of those bikers to the apps.
Nicholas Gorka: Hold delivery apps accountable for riders. Delivery workers need e-bikes, but safety comes first. I’d push for accountability from apps employing riders by using cell phone numbers as a way to track and report on habitual rule breakers. I would also explore some of the ‘minimum wage’ policies NYC had recently implemented as a way to incentivize these apps to govern themselves.
Shashi Khemlani: The delivery bikers are rewarded for completing more deliveries and doing so on-time, and hence they break rules and ride at unsafe speeds. We should follow NYC’s lead and limit the number of delivery bikes per app in our city. This will take pressure off of the bikers themselves. I would also demand accountability from the apps to remove those bikers who break rules. Law enforcement should report the cell number of those bikers to the apps.
Caitlin Layson: We should focus enforcement on high-crash areas, using cameras to deter unsafe behavior, while ensuring electric vehicles follow the same rules as other road users. Pairing this with education for drivers, cyclists, and e-bike riders will help build a culture of safety and shared responsibility on Hoboken’s streets.
Laura Miani: I think e-bikes should follow the same traffic laws as cars. They should go in the direction of traffic, stop at red lights, observe speed limits and not drive on sidewalks.
Joe Quintero: First is to continue to focus on enforcement in the highest crash areas, in particular camera assisted enforcement. This will create a safer environment for all in those areas. We should also ensure our e-vehicles are also held to the same traffic laws as those they share the road with to ensure we promote an overall culture of compliance from a safety perspective.
Alfredo Veloce: We need to create a designated space for eBike drivers (maybe in that empty space by Pier A) that can act as a hub to reduce the clutter on Washington and provide a safe, sheltered space to rest and charge phones or bikes. There is a bike path already down Observer Highway, on the riverwalk by Pier A, and on Washington street, but we need to connect these so the drivers stay off of the sidewalks. The drivers do need to remain in the bike lanes and off the sidewalks (unless they are walking the bike) and also not run red lights or stop signs as that could become dangerous.
Community & Equity
11. How would you ensure that residents who express concern about bicycle infrastructure or street redesign projects are heard and meaningfully engaged in the decision-making process? (Open Response)
Dave Mello: By listening to them and considering what they have to say, along with all other residents of Hoboken.
Britta Ouano: Every resident should have a voice in shaping Hoboken’s streets. I support ensuring transparency by sharing clear project details and timelines, holding public meetings at varied times, and offering online surveys so everyone can participate. Non-biased studies must also be conducted and publicly posted, so decisions are based on facts as well as feedback. Most importantly, input should be reported back, showing how it shaped the final plan.
Liz Urtecho: My platform is based upon transparency and a residents first approach. All stakeholders need to be included in the discussion before policies or decisions are made. That’s called good governance and good leadership.
Steve Firestone: Voices from the community are the most important input for all important City Council decisions, including bicycle infrastructure. We hope that members of the community feel compelled to attend City Council meetings or contact their representatives to explain issues that they are seeing. We cannot do better as a community without community input! I would like to see more public engagement on the part of City Hall to ensure that community members can express their opinions about bicycle infrastructure and/or street redesign projects in open forums.
Carter Craft: Create Shared Streets working group of roadway users + county engineer’s office + Mayor’s office reps to focus on 3-4 key areas per year.
Kim Giddens: As mayor, I would schedule frequent meetings with cycling advocates. As a bike-rider myself, I am so very appreciative of our city’s bicycle infrastructure and would love to see it grow.
Nicholas Gorka: Share plans openly, gather broad input. Street changes work best when residents feel heard. I’d expand neighborhood meetings, surveys, and transparent reporting so residents’ concerns shape final designs.
Shashi Khemlani: As mayor, I would schedule frequent meetings with cycling advocates. As a bike-rider myself, I am so very appreciative of our city’s bicycle infrastructure and would love to see it grow.
Caitlin Layson: Engagement should start early and continue throughout the project, with accessible community meetings, online feedback options, and targeted outreach to underrepresented neighborhoods. Sharing examples of how similar infrastructure improvements have benefited other cities can help residents understand the potential positive impact. Finally, documenting input and clearly showing how it influences the final plan ensures the community has a meaningful role in creating safer, more functional streets.
Laura Miani: We need to have an open and transparent process so that residents can learn about projects, ask questions and provide input.
Joe Quintero: First we have to communicate to them that we hold all our residents to the same enforcement standards. That is, we expect bikes, ebikes, and scooters to follow the street rules as everyone else. We then need to promote more examples of how such infrastructure improvements have benefitted other cities recently. Finally, we need to try more test cases across the city so people can “feel” what these infrastructure changes could be like and then engage in the process to make them permanent if desired.
Alfredo Veloce: All forms of communication need to be leveraged for community input on projects, in person meetings are essential but there should be online variations for those who cannot attend, as well as surveys to residents in the impacted area. Common feedback points on each project can be normalized into a dataset that can help the city prioritize what features and functions are best. Safety and cost data should be made transparent with the public, not only before, but on an ongoing basis and should be available and digestible to residents.
12. What role do you believe active transportation (walking, biking, micromobility) should play in Hoboken’s climate and sustainability goals? (Open Response)
Dave Mello: The fact that we are a walkable community, where residents have far less vehicles on average than most municipalities, is already working toward and supportive of climate and sustainability goals. As a councilperson in the past, I chaired the parking and transportation committee when our first bike share system, corner cars, and the HOP shuttle were all launched. I would continue to advocate for active transportation expansions and improvements.
Britta Ouano: Active transportation is a big reason people choose to live in Hoboken, it’s a huge reason why I love living here. Walking, biking, and micromobility should be expanded through safe, connected routes, but always with thoughtful integration of all transportation modes. Residents who rely on cars should not be punished—our focus should be on balance and better utilization of existing assets like the Hop and expanding on electric versions.
Liz Urtecho: I support all active transportation. We are in a mile square town which we should encourage those who are able to participate. Active transportation data should be included in our climate and sustainability goals.
Steve Firestone: Hoboken residents should try to utilize active transportation wherever possible. For me, I find it is often the best way to get from Point A to Point B. For those residents that do not need to rely on an automobile, we should make it as easy as possible to take an active form of travel. Getting out of a car allows us to see our neighbors as they pass by on the street. Taking a Citi-bike instead of a car allows us to reduce our reliance on non-sustainable fuels. We can make Hoboken more environmentally sustainable. It takes small, daily personal transportation decisions that can cumulatively add up to big results for the community.
Carter Craft: Active Transport should be one of 3 or 4 key strategies for the city’s sustainability goals
Kim Giddens: I am always in favor of more cycling and less car use. Less congestion, less honking, less pollution. That said, I know many in our city rely on cars for many aspects of daily life and in many cases simply have no alternative. I am personally pro-cycling but not here to lecture my fellow residents.
Nicholas Gorka: Walking, biking, and micromobility reduce congestion and emissions while improving health. These should be core pillars of Hoboken’s sustainability strategy.
Shashi Khemlani: I am always in favor of more cycling and less car use. Less congestion, less honking, less pollution. That said, I know many in our city rely on cars for many aspects of daily life and in many cases simply have no alternative. I am personally pro-cycling but not here to lecture my fellow residents.
Caitlin Layson: Active transportation should be at the heart of Hoboken’s climate and sustainability goals. People often point to our city’s walkability as one of its greatest assets, and building on that means making it easy and safe for everyone — whether walking, biking, or using micromobility options. That includes designing streets and pathways that are accessible for people of all abilities, from seniors to families with strollers. Encouraging more people to choose active transportation reduces emissions, improves public health, and strengthens the sense of community that makes Hoboken such a special place.
Laura Miani: Hoboken is a walkable city and that is one of our many desirable qualities… We do need to ensure safety for pedestrians, cyclists, and micromobility. I also think we should ensure our transportation is updated so that people can get around more efficiently with the HOP bus, better bus routes, and working with NY Waterway so that we can get ferry buses to bring residents around Hoboken the same way they can get around NYC. I don’t think we eliminate cars, but we can provide more choices.
Joe Quintero: It is definitely a contributing factor, e.g., more walking means less driving means fewer emissions, but it is likely a nominal factor when looking at the overall impact. Rather we should promote active transportation as a way to improve our individual and collective qualities of life SIGNIFICANTLY. It has been shown that the more people get out of their cars and move about town on foot or bike, then happier communities are generally.
Alfredo Veloce: By nature, walking and biking already are low to zero emission alternatives that help with sustainability goals. An emphasis on public transportation, and effort to make such more reliable, could also help reduce impact and footprint, as well as being cost effective ways to commute.
13. How would you ensure that transportation improvements support accessibility for people with disabilities and mobility challenges? (Open Response)
Dave Mello: I would advocate and insist that all transportation improvements are fully ADA compliant, and even go above and beyond compliance if helpful and effective.
Britta Ouano: Accessibility must be at the center of Hoboken’s transportation planning. Every improvement should serve people with disabilities and mobility challenges while balancing walking, biking, driving, and transit. This means ADA-compliant sidewalks, curb cuts, and crosswalk signals, reliable Hop shuttles, and accessible parking. Bike lanes and pedestrian routes should be designed to safely coexist with vehicles, and protected crossings make travel safer for everyone.
Liz Urtecho: People with disabilities are often overlooked when thinking about transportation and get around town. Bring back the benches! All sidewalks and curbs need to be ADA compliant. Streets and sidewalks need to be maintained. We need to make sure that traffic and e-delivery vehicles abide by laws.
Steve Firestone: Hoboken is a very compassionate community, and we believe that all residents should be able to take advantage of our mobility resources. Our HOPS need to be ADA accessible, and routes should be expanded. We should ensure that residents that need ADA accessible parking spaces are granted them in a very timely manner.
Carter Craft: Identify top 15-20 places where accessibility is currently not adequate and public a Report Card every year on Accessibility for City Streets and sidewalks.
Kim Giddens: Infrastructure must serve everyone. Safer curb cuts, audible signals, and ADA-compliant design ensure mobility equity for seniors, families, and people with disabilities
Nicholas Gorka: Infrastructure must serve everyone. Safer curb cuts, audible signals, and ADA-compliant design ensure mobility equity for seniors, families, and people with disabilities
Shashi Khemlani: Infrastructure must serve everyone. Safer curb cuts, audible signals, and ADA-compliant design ensure mobility equity for seniors, families, and people with disabilities
Caitlin Layson: To ensure transportation improvements truly support people with disabilities and mobility challenges, accessibility must be considered at every stage of planning and design. Regular audits of these accommodations are essential to ensure they are working properly and meeting community needs. The HOP system should also become fully ADA accessible and user-friendly, allowing all residents to travel safely and independently. By combining thoughtful design, ongoing monitoring, and input from the community, we can build a transportation system that works for everyone, regardless of ability.
Laura Miani: We need to work more closely with the disability community to find out what’s working and what isn’t. We would ensure that street redesigns or transit projects have accessibility review.
Joe Quintero: Our HOPS all need to be ADA accessible, should be expanded, and should be simplified. We should continue to ensure our curbs, not only at the corners, but in mid blocks, are built so that people with mobility issues can get over them. We should also seek to add more ADA spaces (e.g., one every few blocks) across town.
Alfredo Veloce: Accessibility for everyone, especially for people with disabilities, should be essential. We should not be finishing any infrastructure projects that are not ADA compliant. Sidewalks need to be fixed where they are dangerous, crosswalks should be painted and sloped for ease of mobility (wheelchairs, walkers, etc). We also need to make sure our bus stops (and at regular Hop intervals) have benches. Public buildings should all have ramps as well.
Personal Experience & Vision
14. How often do you walk or bike for transportation in Hoboken? What have your experiences been like? (Open Response)
Dave Mello: I am a member of Citibikes and own a bike. I bike a few times a month.
Britta Ouano: I usually walk with a stroller and value safer crossings, but I often Uber to appointments or uptown since parking is scarce, especially on Washington and 14th. After my bike was stolen, I replaced it and use it often, especially now as I’m a slow walker at almost 9 months pregnant, but struggle with few bike racks throughout town. Washington racks are full of e-bikes, none exist at 770 House, and riding a bike on Washington street feels unsafe due to speeding e-bikers and poor pavement. An e-biker even ran a red light and hit my stroller, luckily without my toddlers in it. These challenges make biking or driving difficult, even though I’d prefer them over relying on ridesharing.
Liz Urtecho: I always walk and only drive on rare occasions. In fact, I can go weeks without driving. I don’t bike in town although my kids do.
Steve Firestone: I typically walk everywhere that I need to get to in Hoboken. Hoboken is the most walkable city in America, in my opinion. On occasions where I have to get somewhere more quickly, I utilize the Washington Street NJT bus. My experiences walking have always been extremely positive. Hoboken has amazing architecture, and I often find myself catching something unique about buildings and places that I never noticed before. My experiences taking the bus have been a little more frustrating. People often double park on Washington Street and some motorists disobey the rules. This slows down the buses and delays riders. This is one of the reasons why I think it is vital that we utilize technology to better police this area of Hoboken. No one deserves to have to wait for a person parking illegally on Washington Street to return to their car when they are trying to get home from work.
Carter Craft: I bike almost every day. The experience is much better than 20 years ago when I first moved here.
Kim Giddens: I almost always walk or bike within Hoboken. I have an annual subscription to Citi Bike. This program could use some attention from management to improve operations. As a daily commuter, it is challenging to rely on availability of bikes at the docking stations. Anytime after 8pm, it is almost impossible to find an available spot in the South-Midwest to dock the bike. Equitable distribution of bikes around the city needs attention.
Nicholas Gorka: You can find me 5 to 7 days a week out jogging on the water or enjoying extended walks with my wife and dog (Stevie Wonder). I also keep a bike, e-scooter, and even a paddle board (which I have brought into the Hudson on occasion), at our residence. The walkability and connectivity to neighboring towns along the Hudson is one of my very favorite things about our City and I would make it a priority to lean into continued improvement with regard to active transportation.
Shashi Khemlani: I almost always walk or bike within Hoboken. I have an annual subscription to Citi Bike. This program could use some attention from management to improve operations. As a daily commuter, it is challenging to rely on availability of bikes at the docking stations. Anytime after 8pm, it is almost impossible to find an available spot in the South-Midwest to dock the bike. Equitable distribution of bikes around the city needs attention.
Caitlin Layson: My primary mode of transportation in Hoboken is walking.
Laura Miani: I walk daily. I no longer bike in Hoboken. As a cyclist I find that disappointing, however the bike lanes are not being utilized as intended, they have been taken over by delivery e-bikes, people who double park, Amazon and other trucks… I do not feel as safe as I did 10 years ago. I was also hit by an e-bike on Washington Street. Our laws need to be enforced so that residents can feel safe on their bikes.
Joe Quintero: My primary mode of transportation around town is by walking, followed by my bike, and then my car. On occasion I’ll take my e-scooter out for a ride.
Alfredo Veloce: Per week, I bike 2-3 times when I commute to Jersey City, and I walk every single day. As a pedestrian, walking in Hoboken is easy though there are sidewalks that need to be fixed and it is important to be cautious around intersections (people do not stop at stop signs). As a cyclist, especially riding down Jefferson street (from 3rd to Newark), roads absolutely need to be fixed and cars are often double parked in the bike lane. I always get off and walk my bike when on the sidewalk and make sure to stop at the stop signs or if someone is crossing.
15. (Optional) Is there anything else you’d like to share about your vision for walking, biking, and active transportation in Hoboken? (Open Response)
Dave Mello: I have been a strong advocate of new transportation options such as the HOP, Corner Cars, and bike sharing. I will continue to advocate for organizing our city around multiple modes of transportation, rather than prioritizing cars as the default means of transportation. Most importantly, I don’t believe in declaring war on auto owners, but rather want to provide enough good options that vehicles are rarely used for inter-Hoboken mobility. It’s not car ownership that should be fought, it’s cars being the best option for travel within Hoboken and Hudson County. That should never be the case. There should be multiple non-car options available, so that vehicle owners will not feel compelled to use their vehicles nearly as often, or to not feel a need to own one at all if a resident of Hoboken.
Britta Ouano: [No additional response provided]
Liz Urtecho: [No additional response provided]
Steve Firestone: Hoboken attracts people of all ages because it is mobility-accessible to a large population. However, we should never slow the process of improvement. Residents should reach out to their elected officials to provide input. We grow together as a community and we can continue the public safety success of Vision Zero into the future.
Carter Craft: We need better east-west routes for bikes and transit
Kim Giddens: Roads. They are broken up and not paved. This makes biking very challenging. On Jefferson street, the bike lane got dug up and never repaired properly. We need to hold utility companies responsible for restoring our roads after repair work
Nicholas Gorka: If you walk the streets of Hoboken you find many cracking down the middle and others with a patchwork of scars from where utility or emergency road work was needed. I want to see the cleanup and repair, post this kind of work, be held to a higher standard; one where the contractor is required to repair the road surface to achieve both utility as well as aesthetics.
Shashi Khemlani: Roads. They are broken up and not paved. This makes biking very challenging. On Jefferson street, the bike lane got dug up and never repaired properly. We need to hold utility companies responsible for restoring our roads after repair work.
Caitlin Layson: [No additional response provided]
Laura Miani: [No additional response provided]
Joe Quintero: [No additional response provided]
Alfredo Veloce: Hoboken is my home, I have been in this community my entire life and I cannot stress the importance of being able to get around safely especially with children and pets. Not only have I been walking around here my whole life, but I ride my bike consistently, take public transportation for my commute, and even drive occasionally (larger errands, leaving town, etc).
Our conversations around transportation are always heated with each of these groups pitted against each other, as an example of someone who has always used each, it does not have to be this way. My vision for Hoboken is more collaborative, it is centered around innovative and comprehensive policy making.
Feel free to reach out anytime with feedback, insight or concerns at: veloce4hoboken@gmail.com