Village of Montgomery officials and residents expressed concerns about the increasing traffic from commuter vehicles and trucks at the recent Board of Trustees meeting on Tuesday, October 1. With new buildings and upcoming potential projects on 17K being discussed, residents in attendance shared their concerns about the surge in commuter traffic during peak hours and at night.

Mayor L. Stephen Brescia acknowledged that traffic increases are an inevitable issue for all municipalities in Orange County, but as of late the flow of traffic is concerning especially in an area with historic homes and buildings as well as foot traffic on the sidewalks.

“You’re going to have some commuter traffic just not to the extent that we have been seeing,” shared Brescia.

A small group of residents agreed that the trucks from 84 utilizing the village to get to other parts of the area are causing traffic and safety issues at the intersections. In some instances, truck drivers have problems navigating the sharp turn from 17K on to 211, the main problem area, and end up on the curb or blocking traffic in an attempt to redo the turn. As the trucks drive out of the village, an increase in speed is also a factor with homes and pedestrians in close proximity.

Village Trustee Michael Hembury suggested that the village look to petition New York State to lower the speed limit leaving the troubled intersection or see if vehicle weight restrictions could be looked into for the roads. Hembury shared his sense of commitment to the village and his intentions to pursue the issue further. “I don’t want this place to fall apart. I’m very concerned about it,” he explained.

Brescia and Village of Montgomery Trustees assured residents that they will look into the concerns and the increase in traffic is not going unnoticed.

“We will do whatever we can do to mitigate the traffic for this community,” explained Brescia. He shared that he will also look to develop a committee for the village, if possible in cooperation with Orange County, to ease the traffic issues in the coming weeks.