FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE03-71
November
20, 2003
Contact:
Ian Michaels
(718) 595-6600
Department
of Environmental Protection Completes Short-Term Improvements on Route
28A in Olive
Commissioner Christopher O. Ward of the New York City Department of Environmental
Protection (DEP) announced today that the agency has completed numerous
short-term improvements to the part of Route 28A in Olive that is being
used as an alternate to Monument Road, which was closed earlier this year
because of security concerns related to terrorism.
“Safety along Route 28A is a high priority for the DEP,”
said Commissioner Ward. “We’ve made a number of real improvements
which are designed to make the road safer and more reliable for local
residents. We’ll continue to monitor conditions on 28A closely and
make more changes if necessary. We’re also working with the State
Department of Transportation, and will make any improvements the DOT thinks
are needed.”
Among the measures taken to improve safety on Route 28A are:
-
The roadway has been re-striped from the intersection of Monument
Road and Reservoir Road to Route 28A to Route 213, including crosswalks;
-
Some trees have been removed to improve sightlines and to allow
more sunlight onto the road. Additional tree work by a professional
tree service contractor will begin in December;
-
Shoulders have been widened and paved where necessary;
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Drainage has been improved and nearby culverts have been cleaned
and repaired;
-
Additional warning and guide signs have been installed on Route 28A
and on the Middle Dike at the Ashokan Reservoir.
In addition, the DEP is designing a new section of road to replace the
“S” curve on Route 28A that is near the intersection of Route
213. The realignment will be straighter and have a reduced grade from
the existing road. Construction is scheduled to begin in Fall 2004.
The DEP is also consulting with the New York State Department of Transportation
and the Ulster County Department of Public Works to re-evaluate the speed
limit on Route 28A.