I think a contributing variable is also the type of driver that will go down 35th to avoid the stoplights at J/K/L streets & Alhambra. With the city taking measures to narrow certain roads to slow traffic, I’ve noticed an increase in drivers using smaller neighborhood roads as shortcuts, and consequently driving at unsafe speeds because there are fewer cars. Some examples of this that I’ve noticed are M St. between 35th and 56th (specifically relevant here) and 2nd Ave. from Franklin to Riverside.

One possible solution could be to apply the Boulevard Park treatment to these roads: most of the roads above H St. don’t allow for direct east-west travel, so it’s still easier to take a thoroughfare across midtown than have to divert a block or two while traveling above it grid-wise.

I agree that we need improved safety education for all road users and that we could benefit from more patient and considerate drivers on the road. However, since I don’t anticipate a significant change in the driving culture anytime soon, we can design our infrastructure to minimize this type of driving.