Lewis making progress with its traffic study

LEWIS | The town is now requesting that all community members share their travel experiences along U.S. Route 9 via a survey as part of the ongoing traffic study to further reduce the speed limit from 40 to 35 miles per hour (mph). By evaluating existing conditions, identifying challenges, and exploring opportunities for improvement, this study, conducted by MJ & Associates, will provide a roadmap for future projects that strengthen the economy, promote public health, and enhance community connectivity. According to the New York State Department of Transportation (DOT) website, "the purpose of a traffic [...] study is to fully assess and document the traffic impacts of the proposed development and to identify mitigating measures to minimize those impacts, subject to department approval." The study examines several factors, including lane width, curves, sight distances, roadside development, weather conditions, and pedestrian activity. Most importantly, it also determines the 85th percentile speed, which is the speed at which 85% of drivers travel at or below. "Our original studies showed that people drove over 50 miles per hour," said Supervisor James Monty, who has been at the forefront of this effort since being sworn into office over 20 years ago. After several attempts and repeated denials, the town finally received a $50,000 grant from the DOT last fall to reduce the speed limit. "Finally, we convinced them." Town officials are seeking to reduce the speed limit for safety reasons. "I can't tell you how many accidents have occurred because of that," Monty remarked of the original speed limit, 45 mph, which resulted in one fatal car accident a few summers ago, as well as several near misses. And with the playground, two outdoor pickleball courts, and other town amenities, keeping the speed limit down is essential for the safety of its residents. "I'm just afraid that if we don't get it further reduced, someone else might get hurt, too." Earlier this spring, the DOT surprised the town by reducing the speed limit entering town from 45 to 40 mph, but the overall goal is to reduce it to 35 mph. The survey will remain live online until mid- to late-January, and the town anticipates the traffic study to be complete by spring 2026, Monty said. Once that happens, the DOT will provide the town with recommendations on how to improve street safety. This could include reducing the speed limit, installing raised crosswalks, and narrowing lane widths. "We want to improve the streets for all pedestrians," the supervisor expressed with sincerity. "We just want to keep everyone safe." For more information or to complete the survey, visit townoflewisecny.gov. All questions, comments, and concerns can be directed to US9SafetyStudy@mjteam.com.

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Lewis making progress with its traffic study

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