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Though not a formal resolution, the Board voted 3-2 in favor of instructing the Village Engineer to move forward with a roundabout design over an updated conventional signal for the intersection upgrade.
Many business owners and other Village stakeholders weighed in on the project, including New York State Department of Transportation roundabout expert, Howard McCulloch.
Peter Russillo of Maser Consulting answered questions about the design. His presentation was followed by questions and comments from the public, and a discussion among the Board of Trustees and staff.
The busy intersection is a main route to the Ossining train station. Residences on the waterfront, parks and commercial spaces became a focus over two years ago because of aging infrastructure, according to a press release.
Officials concluded the intersection needed a complete overhaul, including the accommodation of Spring Street becoming a two-way; upgrading existing lights and underground wiring; and making sidewalks ADA compliant.
The Board of Trustees and Village management looked at a design that "reflected the larger goal of fostering an environment conducive to a thriving mixed-use downtown area," said the release.
Trustee Manuel Quezada, an architect, suggested that the engineers investigate whether a roundabout was a viable alternative to a traditional traffic light intersection.
The two options for the intersection upgrade were explored over conversations and presentations at public meetings, the Village website and social media.
“Our community deserves a safe, welcoming intersection, and today we do not have one. A roundabout will improve traffic flow, increase pedestrian safety, and encourage people to spend more time in our downtown business area," said Mayor Victoria Gearity. "And in terms of the environment and sustainability, it will preserve and even increase green space and decrease the emissions which occur at conventional traffic light intersections."
For more information, call the Village office at (914) 941-3554 or email Mayor Victoria Gearity at gearity at villageofossining.org or Interim Village Manager Paul Fraioli at pfraioli@villageofossining.org.
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