by Daniel Ortega
When faced with a challenge, leaders act. Problems require solutions – they seldom resolve themselves – and if ignored, usually worsen over time. Case in point: Route 17, a major corridor in the Hudson Valley region.
Efforts are underway to improve mobility on Route 17 in Orange and Sullivan counties by adding a third lane east and west, and making other necessary upgrades to convert the corridor to Interstate 86. Enhancing safety on Route 17 is of paramount importance, and we cannot afford further delays to this long-overdue project. It’s time to set the record straight and move this critical project forward.
The New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) on January 17, 2024 hosted two public information sessions on the Route 17 enhancement project. The NYSDOT has been very responsive to local concerns and has addressed considerations ranging from safety, the environment, quality-of-life and projected financial costs.
The need for an additional travel lane has been confirmed by two separate NYSDOT studies and has bipartisan support at all levels of government. The project has long been supported by U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer, and Governor Kathy Hochul last year announced the start of an environmental review of Route 17 – a key step forward to convert the corridor to Interstate 86. The launch of the study follows the inclusion of up to $1 billion in the state budget to accelerate the conversion – funding for which our 17-Forward-86 Coalition had been advocating.
17-Forward-86 members are vocal proponents of this project. Yes, we are stakeholders – we live here, work here and travel on Route 17. The stakes are high. Why is this project so important? First and foremost is safety. An additional lane will improve mobility and provide critical access for first responders – police, fire and ambulance services. It will make the corridor safer for all of us traveling on it each and every day,…
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