An interesting article in today's Westchester County Business Journal (www.westchestercbj.com)indicated that if the Tappan Zee bridge is replaced that there will be up to 15 new transit stops along the way. Elmsford/Greenburgh was listed as a possible stop. This could include bus terminals or train stations. There are a variety of options: buses, commuter trains or small light rail trains. As the business Journal article pointed out - once an option is chosen there are other questions that must be answered. WHere will commuters park their cars? How many parking spots are needed near the planned stops? How many acres of property will need to be set aside for parking areas?
I have included $30,000 in my 2007 proposed budget for a consultant study to identify issues that will impact the town regarding the TZ bridge option. The study has the support of other local officials and the Conservation Advisory Council. We want to make sure that your interests are advocated before the state finalizes any decision.
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11 comments:
Boy, this town sure LOVES to squander away money on "studies".
It kind of makes me wonder if someone is getting a kickback from consulting firms? With all high salaried officials and others involved in Town Goverment, it makes me wonder why these studies are neccesary?
The best move is a commuter rail line. It's a "no-duh" move.
I don't like to spend taxpayer dollars unnecessarily. However, the TZ bridge issue is very complicated/technical. We will benefit using the services of specialists who are familiar with transportation/bridge/planning issues. We also don't have extra staff that can do this work.
"specialists who are familiar with transportation/bridge/planning issues"
Absolutely, but isn't that the responsibility of the state transportation department? We should certainly have plenty of input, but such studies and input-seeking is a state matter to sponsor and coordinate. Greenburgh town government has plenty of other tasks of its own to handle.
I understand that.
But what is this study expected to accomplish, when, and what effect will it have on the State?
Shouldn't we seek State funds for this? The issue is not technical....put a commuter rail line in, and it will solve A LOT of problems....simple! There, I just saved the taxpayers $30,000. Who lobbys the State on the behalf of Greenburgh?
I feel bad for the pedestrians walking up West Hartsdale Avenue in the cold, dark rain with heavy traffic flying by them and no where to walk but a narrow shoulder where lighting is non existent. So many issues in this town that affect the day to day life and SAFETY of the citizens of Greenburgh, yet the town could care less. Only the big issues.
"Only the big issues."
as well as so many issues that do not belong in the realm of municipal management
TZB - NYS
SAT camp - school systems
library dramas - library boards
and so many more examples
I agree with x635 that the day-to-day life of the town (safety, roadways, taxes, zoning, etc.) needs to be the highest priorities for town government. Sure, provide input to other stuff (state transportation, academic affairs, etc.), but if there's a major town street where there's "no where to walk but a narrow shoulder where lighting is non existent," then I want to see the town address that kind of stuff as very high priority.
This is a planning issue. New bus or train stations will generate more traffic. Will there be any condemnation of property? Where will the stations be located?
I agree with x635 and anonymous... TZ planning is a regional matter, managed by the state. Perhaps we should demand they furnish the Town with funds to conduct an impact study, but we should not spend Town money on it.
The state could potentially be the adversary - they will be making decisions that impact Greenburgh residents quality of life. The decisions the state makes will have an impact on local road congestion. THe ideal situation would be for the state to shell out some money so local governments can conduct reviews. What happens if they don't?
If the town spends some money now isn't it possible that the town taxpayers could save more money later on. We could avoid litigation and also have our concerns incorporated into final plans made by the state.
We need experts to provide the town and 287 corridor with information NOW--before the State finalizes plans for a new Tappan Zee bridge and East-West transportation system. X635 suggests a rail line. If a rail line is built where will the parking station be located within Greenburgh? How will that impact congestion, future development? Can NY State force parking on Greenburgh/Elmsford, without our consent? Can the state overrule local governments? Will there be condemnation of properties? Can the town take any proactive steps now?
Why is everyone thinking a train station would be a negative? I dont.
Mass transit helps cut down on pollution. Land/buildings near train stations are more valuable --look at East Hartsdale AVenue versus West. Homes in Communities with station parking available are more valuable.
We need to get on board with the planning, and look for funds for parking (the MTA funds some) and make certain local land owners get fair prices for any land taken.
Putting heads in the sand is not the answer.
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