Following Gov. Kathy Hochul and Rep. Pat Ryan’s announcement launching a comprehensive study to improve regional transit coordination and cross-county connections in the Hudson Valley and Catskills region, a coalition of community leaders, organizations and elected representatives, organized by the ReThink Route 17 Alliance, is calling on the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) to ensure the West of Hudson Transit Study is comprehensive, inclusive and oriented toward actionable results.

While applauding the study, the coalition submitted a formal letter to NYSDOT outlining five key recommendations aimed at shaping a study that reflects the diverse transportation needs of communities west of the Hudson River and delivers real improvements for commuters and residents, no matter their chosen transportation method. 

“We envision a safe and sustainable transportation system that provides accessible and affordable choices for getting around, whether by bus, rail, bike, car, sidewalk or trail,” the letter states. “We are eager to help ensure this study’s findings are meaningful and actionable.”

The letter’s key recommendations urge NYSDOT to:

Engage the public meaningfully by establishing a formal advisory committee that includes local governments, metropolitan planning organizations, regional planning bodies, transit providers and community residents throughout the study process.

Connect across counties by serving as a regional convener able to see the “bigger picture” and facilitate multi-county transit collaboration, addressing persistent gaps that leave commuters stranded at jurisdictional boundaries.

Consider all low-carbon travel modes, including pedestrian and bicyclist infrastructure on streets, sidewalks and trails—in coordination with NYSOPRHP and NYSDEC—both as standalone travel options and as connections to bus and rail transit, consistent with the goals of New York’s Climate Law, the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act.

Plan holistically along the Route 17 corridor by using the transit study’s findings to inform decision-making for the Route 17 Mobility and Access Improvements Project, even if that means adjusting the EIS timeline to ensure coordinated, fiscally responsible investment in the region.

Implement improvements on a rolling basis throughout the study’s duration, delivering near-term quality-of-life benefits that build public confidence in the government’s ability to deliver for Hudson Valley and Catskills commuters.

The coalition emphasized that the study presents a rare opportunity to chart a course toward a more connected, sustainable Hudson Valley and Catskills region. Local leaders looked forward to learning more about the public outreach plan and stakeholder advisory committee process.

The letter was submitted to NYSDOT and calls for a timely response regarding next steps to implement the coalition’s recommendations. To read the full letter, visit www.bit.ly/4bRBkDY.

Catskill Mountainkeeper
Livingston Manor, NY