The Democratic-led state Senate this week approved a package of bills meant to boost safety for cyclists, walkers and highway workers. 

The measures also seek to bolster safety rules covering for-hire vehicles under apps like Uber and Lyft, as well as for charter buses. 

"This comprehensive package of legislation advanced by the Democratic Conference prioritizes safety and accountability on New York's roadways," said Senate Transportation Committee Chairman Tim Kennedy. "As we continue to make substantial investments in our roads, we need to ensure we’re supporting complete street concepts and thinking long-term about how our infrastructure will be used efficiently and confidently. I thank our Majority Leader, Senator Andrea Stewart-Cousins, for continuing to drive forward a progressive transportation agenda that seeks to protect New Yorkers, and create more secure and sustainable communities statewide." 

The bills approved on Thursday in the state Senate include a pre-licesning instructional program on pedestrian and bicyclist safety, a measure that requires vehicles outside of New York City to allow for three feet of space for when a cyclist is on the road, and a bill that would boost penalties for endangering highway workers, with part of the proceeds going toward a work zone safety fund. 

Additional bills would create a program to address wrong-way driving on the interstate, a school bus safety and education program and a measure meant to boost safety at railroad crossings.