Last Updated: March 24, 2010

Traffic Light Installation At Busy Intersection

• LC Colgate

Harried drivers, commuters and hysterical parents rushing to schools will no doubt be pleased that a new traffic light is being installed at the busy intersection of Route 107/Cedar Swamp Road and Chicken Valley Road in Old Brookville. Located at a “T” stop, this congested area faced a rigorous and comprehensive study over the past few months. Field observations were collected, cars were literally counted and accident data was compiled. After the information was analyzed, the result indicated that a traffic light would greatly improve safety and traffic flow along this corridor, especially in the mornings and afternoon/evening rush.
According to Eileen Peters, public information officer for the New York State Department of Transportation/Long Island region, the extensive background work was needed to “assure that a traffic signal would actually improve the situation and not aggravate it even more.”
The initial request for the work came in from both local residents and community politicians. The comprehensive traffic study to determine the feasibility of installing a new traffic signal was undertaken in response to a request from Senator Carl Marcellino who wrote to the NYSDOT on behalf of one of his constituents.
The construction will take approximately three months. Christine Caputo, engineer-in-charge for the NYS DOT said that the light will include a left turn signal for those travelling east off of Chicken Valley Road. The foundation needs to be poured and given ample time to dry. Wiring will take place and the signal will then go in the ground. After fits and spurts of construction action, the light will “flash” for fourteen days to give drivers a “heads up,” about it. Signs will also be posted along Route 107 and Chicken Valley Road to alert motorists. After that, the light will be in business, and, hopefully, traffic will run much more smoothly.
Workmen at the site said that several cars had pulled over to thank them for “finally” putting in this light. No one had shared any negative feedback.

 

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