Plans to Eliminate Hudson Valley Traffic Nightmare Fast-Tracked
A major traffic nightmare in the Hudson Valley will be eliminated five years ahead of schedule.
On Sunday in Woodbury, Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced the $150 million reconstruction of the Woodbury Transit and Economic hub will be completed five years ahead of schedule, moving up the expected completion of the design-build project from 2024 to 2019.
“The overhaul of these roads and traffic patterns, along with the addition of cashless tolling and enhanced public transit options, will ease congestion for those who live, travel, work, eat, and shop here, while supporting the future growth of the Mid-Hudson region,” Cuomo said.
The project will expand the Route 32 corridor, replace the Route 32 Bridge over Route 17, reconfigure the ramp leading to the New York State Thruway and add a solar-powered bus station, an expanded commuter parking lot, and an intelligent transportation system that adapts to changing traffic conditions.
The New York State Thruway Authority will implement cashless tolling at the Harriman Toll Barrier, ensuring that motorists will be able to pass through quicker.
“Anyone who drives through southern Orange County knows what it’s like to sit in endless traffic around Woodbury Common, which is why fixing this problem has been my top transportation priority since day one,” Rep. Sean Patrick Maloney (D-18th) said. “Smart, responsible investments in our infrastructure make us safer, create hundreds of good-paying jobs, and grow our economy – it’s really a no-brainer.”
To improve mobility and traffic patterns, the project will include:
- Improved access to Woodbury Common Premium Outlets
- Replacing the Route 32 bridge over Route 17
- Reconstruction and expansion of Park and Ride facilities which will include a bus stop and solar-powered bus station to promote public transit
- Reconfiguring the Route 17, Exit 131 eastbound ramp leading to the Thruway
- A new interconnected and adaptive traffic signal system along Route 32 to minimize delays and enhance access to local businesses and schools
- Intelligent Transportation Systems to adapt to changing traffic conditions and optimize signal responses
Construction is scheduled to begin later this year. The project should also strengthen the local economy and create 600 jobs.
“This is a win for those visiting our area, a win for businesses and a win for all New Yorkers," state Sen. William J. Larkin, Jr. (R-39th) said.