Halstead-North Barry Intersection Collision Raises Safety Questions

The two-car collision that damaged a law office at 650 Halstead Ave. last week has left some Mamaroneck residents—namely those working in the building—concerned about the area's safety.  

The accident occurred at approximately 4:30 p.m. on May 14, when a vehicle travelling westbound on Halstead Avenue drove through a red light at North Barry Avenue. The driver struck another car in the intersection, and then continued moving south, striking the law office.

The driver at fault told police he was unable to see the color of the traffic light.

Both of the drivers were taken to New Rochelle's Sound Shore Medical Center. The driver who was hit noted pain in her left hand and arm.

Andrew Spatz, a Mamaroneck resident whose law office is located at 650 Halstead Ave., says this accident is no anomaly.

"The building has been struck on several previous occasions," Spatz said. "About three times in the past 10 years."

Spatz attributes the frequent accidents to high vehicle and pedestrian traffic, and the merger of residential, business, and commercial areas.

"The intersection has become even more heavily travelled over few years," Spatz added.  

In the past, the village has taken steps to increase safety by increasing the length of red lights—but Spatz believes more precautions are necessary.

"We are working diligently with the village to arrive at a resolution to address the issue," he said. Monday, Spatz discussed a proposal to install a barrier on the corner of the street with Village of Mamaroneck officials.

"It can protect pedestrians and property," Spatz said. "[I am] very confident the village will work alongside the owners of the building to take whatever actions are necessary."

Spatz's worries are not unique; onlookers also described the accident as destructive. 

Kenneth Millwater, a 53-year-old Mamaroneck resident and letter carrier, witnessed the accident from his car. Millwater was on North Barry Avenue, two cars behind the one that was struck.

"When the light turned green, the girl in front of me went into the intersection," Millwater said. "Then the guy [coming from Halstead Avenue] plowed into her, and then into the law office."

"He hit her full speed, with no brakes," Millwater said. "Her car spun around, and the airbags were deployed."