The Hudson Valley is set to receive a portion of over $32 million allocated for road safety improvements across New York State. Governor Kathy Hochul announced this funding as part of the "Safe System" approach, aimed at reducing highway deaths and enhancing road safety. This initiative, backed by the Federal Highway Administration’s Highway Safety Improvement Program, will support the installation of new guide rails, improved signage, and pavement markings.

Local communities such as Claverack and Greenport in Columbia County will benefit from this funding. According to data, 44 percent of crash fatalities in New York occur when a vehicle departs from its lane. The funding aims to address these issues by implementing measures to keep vehicles within their lanes and reduce the severity of crashes.

Governor Hochul emphasized the importance of road safety, stating, "One death on our roads is too many, and we will continue to invest in proven solutions to enhance safety and achieve our goal of zero deaths on New York’s roads."

CBS6 Albany reported that the funding is part of a broader $90 million initiative to improve road safety across the state. The New York State Department of Transportation is focusing on engineering improvements, public education, and law enforcement activities to reduce fatalities and serious injuries on highways.

The funds will be distributed across various regions, including the Capital Region, North Country, Mohawk Valley, Finger Lakes, Western New York, Long Island, and New York City. Local leaders and lawmakers have expressed support for the initiative, highlighting its potential to significantly enhance road safety and reduce accidents.

Governor Hochul's office stated that the funding will enable local governments to implement projects that improve road safety, helping to ensure that drivers reach their destinations safely.

Theresa Lucas