New York City's Department of Transportation is seeking to hire a specialized engineer for a critical role focused on resolving the long-standing issues with the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway's (BQE) triple cantilever section. The position, advertised with a salary of up to $250,000 annually, aims to find a "creative" solution for the 1.5-mile stretch of the highway that features a deteriorating three-tiered structure along the Brooklyn waterfront.
DOT Commissioner Mike Flynn described the role, officially listed as BQE Central Assistant Commissioner, as a "career-defining opportunity" to address an "urgent infrastructure priority project." The highway, which carries approximately 130,000 vehicles daily, has been a source of concern for decades due to its aging infrastructure. In 2018, then-Mayor Bill de Blasio warned that the structure could crumble by 2026 if not addressed.
The city has pursued short-term fixes to extend the lifespan of the BQE's central section, including the removal of a traffic lane and the implementation of sensors to ticket overweight trucks. Previous proposals, such as constructing a temporary roadway over the Brooklyn Heights Promenade, faced significant public opposition and were ultimately shelved.
The newly created position will reportedly oversee a team of eight individuals dedicated to the BQE's central section. Candidates are required to be New York City residents and possess extensive experience in engineering and infrastructure management. The administration of Mayor Zohran Mamdani has identified fixing the BQE as a priority, aiming to deliver a permanent solution that balances community needs with the preservation of this vital transportation corridor.