APPENDIX PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT

| 171 ORANGE COUNTY LRTP 2045

OVERVIEW OF PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT FOR LRTP 2045 The public participation approach for the Orange County Transportation Council (OCTC) Long- Range Transportation Plan (LRTP) and Transpor- tation Improvement Program (TIP) update falls into four broad categories:

1. Public workshops; 2. Public sector planning partner outreach; Set-up at first public engagement workshop 3. Private sector, non-governmental organiza- in Newburgh, NY tions, and interest groups outreach; and initial data collection and analysis phase. 4. Supporting and creative public outreach Stakeholders were asked to review the iden- material. tified needs and issues, identify any areas of Work within these four categories is described in concern that are not represented in the data, further detail in the following sections. In addition and provide initial input on which needs and to specific outreach and documentation process issues are most critical to address. This input discussed below, presentations, draft and final helped to fill in gaps in the data, ensure that documents, and other key information were qualitative concerns are noted, and provide posted online via OCTC’s website using the initial input on identifying and prioritizing following link: https://www.orangecountygov. strategies, recommendations, and projects, com/1670/LRTP-2045-Update. including initial concepts for any new projects that might be part of the TIP update. Public Workshops ƒ The second public engagement workshop took place on July 24, 2019 at the Mulberry Three formal public workshops were held during House Senior Center in Middletown, NY and the course of this LRTP update. Each workshop focused on both soliciting additional input and was intended to provide information to the public presenting draft projects and strategies to the about the LRTP progress and elicit input from public and stakeholders, considering both proj- stakeholders about critical needs, issues, recom- ects recommended for the TIP and longer-term mendations, and strategies. A number of visual strategies and recommendations for the LRTP materials were developed to support the work- update. Feedback at this workshop influ- shops, including relevant maps, posters, presenta- enced project and strategy/recommendation tions materials, handouts, and surveys. selection for both documents.

ƒ The first public engagement workshop took ƒ A third public engagement workshop took place on May 7, 2019 at State University of place on November 6, 2019 at the South New York (SUNY) Orange campus in New- Orange Family YMCA in Monroe, NY and burgh, NY and presented outputs from the focused on presenting each LRTP chapter and soliciting additional input on the Plan's

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structure and contents. Feedback at this » Federal Transit Administration (FTA) workshop helped gauge the public's reaction Region II Administrator; to the County's goals, objectives, proposed » Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) transportation enhancements, and environ- NY Division Administrator; mental/resiliency strategies. It also provided insight into which strategies that members of » New York State Bridge Authority; and the public feel are of highest priority for the » Port Authority of New York & New Jersey. County to implement. Input from these members was sought during All public workshops were held in accordance regularly scheduled OCTC meetings, and mem- with OCTC Operating Procedures. bers were invited to all workshops. CS project members attended OCTC meetings and provided Public Sector Planning Partner material to OCTC staff that was used to update Outreach members and obtain feedback from these participants. In addition, the OCTC distribution list includes a number of additional public sector OCTC includes a number of key public sector planning partners including transportation agencies and municipalities as both voting and providers such as fixed route local and commuter non-voting members including: buses as well as dial-a-bus, and human service ƒ Voting agency transportation providers. These organiza- tions were invited to the workshops and were able » Orange County Executive; to view project material online. » New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) Commissioner; Private Sector, Non- » City of Newburgh City Manager; Governmental Organizations » City of Middletown Mayor; (NGO), and Interest Groups » City of Port Jervis Mayor; Outreach » Metropolitan Transportation Authority Between March and June 2019, the consultant (MTA) Chairman / Chief Executive Officer; team connected with key private sector, NGO, and » New York State Thruway Authority interest group stakeholders. These interactions (NYSTA) Executive Director; were targeted to gain information on specific topics critical to Orange County. This outreach » Two voting members from the towns in was conducted by phone and in person via select each of the three transportation areas; and events, if they had been previously scheduled and » Two voting members from all of the vil- occur during the outreach period. For example, lages in Orange County. the consultant team attended and provided an update on the LRTP project at the Association of ƒ Non-Voting Mayors and Supervisors meeting on April 30, 2019. Due to privacy and business concerns, some » All municipalities in Orange County not information may not be attributed to specific presently serving as voting representatives; businesses or groups.

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Supporting and Creative Public Outreach Material

The consultant team aided OCTC in developing ƒ Business cards and posters (on board buses, supporting outreach material for use during in park & ride lot shelters, in other public individual or group stakeholder meetings. This venues, at festivals and farmers markets, etc.) material included PowerPoint presentation with a QR code link to a brief online survey; highlighting the project and work completed to-date, handouts that can be provided to ƒ Utilize online social media (Facebook, Twitter) stakeholders at meetings, and flyers and posters to distribute surveys or questionnaires; and for larger events, among other materials. ƒ Interactive displays and mechanisms to In addition, CS explored with OCTC about poten- attract attention to OCPD staff attending tially developing low-cost, innovative outreach events who can engage people in conversa- solutions that could be used to reach a wide tions about transportation in Orange County. range of people in the County, including:

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SUMMARY OF PUBLIC WORKSHOPS

Public Workshop #1

The first public engagement workshop took place on May 7, 2019 at SUNY Orange campus in Newburgh, NY and presented outputs from the initial data collection and analysis phase. There were two sessions held for this workshop, the first from 3:30pm-5:00pm and the second from 5:30pm-7:00pm. Stakeholders were asked to review the identified needs and issues, identify any areas of concern that are not represented in the data, and provide initial input on which needs and issues are most critical to address. A summary of the feedback received from this public workshop is provided below.

How well does Orange County’s Transportation System work for you?

VOTES: 14 13 10

14 votes green happy face- comments include: ƒ Road conditions & transit doesn’t quite work

ƒ Uber/Lyft ƒ Road in Newburgh needs repairing: do not know enough about public transportation. ƒ With Uber, taxi or bus, I can go where I need Bike lanes are needed to go, even when I didn’t have a car ƒ More options need to be available, got here ƒ Good inter-campus shuttle by car ƒ Train close to home 10 votes red sad/angry face- comments include: ƒ Low congestion ƒ Not a lot of public transportation near tourist 13 votes yellow OK face- comments include: attractions

ƒ Kind of expensive ƒ Hard to get out of town reliably / affordably ƒ Newburgh good: no buses to New Paltz ƒ Lack of public transit within Orange County— Roads are getting too congested ƒ 9W maintenance during poor weather conditions ƒ Roads needs to be fixed in City of Newburgh

ƒ There are many operators, but no real coordi- ƒ Need better enforcement nation - need to manage resources better ƒ Buses are too infrequent Traffic congestions – 9W around City of Newburgh ƒ ƒ It takes too long—Roads are trashed Public transit can be good in some towns + ƒ ƒ Public transit / Lack of options cities. Esp. for going to the city ƒ Does not come to my door ƒ Potholes damage cars in Newburgh City but driving is less stressful compared to NYC ƒ Public Transit is limited and infrequent

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How Did You Get Here Today?

Where do you live?

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Tell Us Your Vision for Transportation:

ƒ A coordinated system that is reliable, steady and feeds central corridors to access jobs, recreation

ƒ A call as need service within reason of time and cost

ƒ A method to transport me where I need to go when I need to be there

ƒ Connected

Which of These is Most Important to You?

Multimodal connectivity • Maintenance, Repair and Rehabilitation • • • Sustainability • Safety • Cost-effective • • Accessible • • • • • Comprehensive intermodal network • • • • • • • • Resiliency • Economic development • • • Energy efficiency • Environmental protection • Security Reliability • • System interconnectivity • • Quality of life •

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What Do We Need to Plan For?

Scenario #1

A. The transportation experience will be door-to-door and B. I’ll book and pay for my own end-to-end trips using seamless, with one app or account needed to book, pay, cards, apps and websites maintained by transportation and travel. For longer trips, I’ll be able to book a solo or agencies and private companies. I’ll be responsible for rideshare trip from my home to a local mobility hub, and getting myself to and from the bus stop, train station, or then transfer to scheduled buses, trains, and planes to get airport, and I’ll make my own connections. me where I need to go. • • • • • • • • • • •

Comments:

ƒ A bit of both ƒ Like book and pay for each segment. Competition produces better products, quality, customer focus ƒ Data feedback on individual basic system basis: walk, bike car share

Scenario #2

A. I’ll buy, maintain, and insure my own vehicle(s) and B. I’ll be able to rent or borrow whatever vehicle I need for store it at my home. any given trip in advance or even on-demand (scooter, bike, small car, large van/SUV, pickup truck, moving van, etc.). It will be dropped off (or drive itself to me) wherever I am when I need it, 24/7. • • • • • • • • • • • • •

No Comments.

Scenario #3

A. Almost everything I need for my home or business B. I’ll go out to shop and run errands myself, and I’ll have will be delivered to my door. Most services (banking, dry meetings face-to-face whenever possible. cleaning) will be handled by apps, with free pickup and delivery when needed. Many meetings and appointments will be done remotely using vastly improved audio, video, and other technologies that are in my home, or come to my home. • • • • • • • • •

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Comments:

ƒ Prefer everything I need delivered to my door, but what meeting face to face when possible ƒ Not a bad option if it saves vehicles ƒ People need interaction for mental health, so both are need. Do not exclude either option ƒ Shared neighbor coordination for errands ƒ All amenities are conveniently local, I prefer human contact

Scenario #4

A. Vehicles will improve and get new safety features, but B. Safe and secure vehicles of all sizes will “drive them- I’ll continue to drive my own car for most of my regular selves”, with no intervention needed from me for most trips, and people will still operate buses, trains, and trucks of my regular trips, freeing me up to relax, play with my in most situations. family and friends, or get some work done while traveling. • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Comments:

ƒ Really it will be something in between for a while ƒ Only when extensive safety and technology work hand in hand will this be realized

Scenario #5

A. I’ll be able to walk, bike or take a short ride to most B. People and business will move into Orange County. But places I need to go because developments in Orange communities will stay the same. As developments spread County has been focused on infill & mixed use buildings in into what is now open spaces, more cars and trucks will fill existing cities, villages and hamlets. the road. I will tolerate spending more time in traffic each day. • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Comments:

ƒ Wish I could put all the balls in the left basket ƒ As population increases, sprawl tends to spread, but people desire various environments: dense/busy and rural/open space and in between

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What are the top strengths of the Orange County Transportation System today?

Ease of travel within Orange County • Presence of Stewart Airport • • • • • • • • • Existing freight rail service • • Easy access to NYC • • • • Proximity to airport and seaports in Metro NYC • Easy long distance travel via Thruway, NY-17, and I-84 • • • • • • • • • • • Ease of travel within communities (cities, village, hamlets) • • Multimodal options for travel • Ability to safely bike or walk to destinations • Availability of transit options (local, commuter, intercity) • • • Ability to move freight and goods into, out of and within Orange County • Cost of housing and transportation •

What are the most pressing issues and challenges facing the Orange County Transportation System today?

Quality and availability of public transit services • • • • • • Environmental impacts of transportation • Resilience of the transportation system • Ability to move freight and goods into, out of and within Orange County Mobility and access for people who cannot drive/no car • • • • • • • • • • • • • Distance or travel time to access daily needs • • Ability to safely walk or bike to destinations • • • • • • • • Travel times that’s are not reliable (not consistent) • Fatalities, serious injuries and crashes • Condition of our roads and bridges • • • • • Transportation impacts on quality of life • • Cost of housing and transportation • • Added: Gridlock / Congestion within urban centers and corridors • •

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Map of issues:

Big Ideas: Infrastructure Projects for ƒ Parking structures vs. parking sprawls People and Freight: ƒ Pervious parking lots

ƒ Increased rail and services to NYC & Upstate NY ƒ No curbs – storm water runoff bioswales ƒ Bulkhead & docks in Newburgh for ƒ Interconnected sidewalk system recreational & tourism vessels ƒ Quiet zone for freight ƒ Road sizing and road diets Big Ideas: Laws and Regulations: ƒ Share infrastructure IE: west shore railroad analysis for passenger and freight ƒ Urban growth boundaries w/ increase ƒ What is the tipping point for reviewing slop ƒ NYSDOT bridge toll is too cheap service ƒ E-ZPass sensors, not booths ƒ Boat/freight recreation/tourism ƒ More incentives for transit-oriented develop- ƒ Repurpose/ downgrade under-utilized high- ment (TOD): car-sharing IE: on campus & go way (if any?) out offices ƒ Multi-modal network should be realigned ƒ Encourage people to give up their car for tax ƒ Fitness trails incentives

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ƒ Every major population hub needs a dedi- ƒ Using “Hub & Spoke” system of county-wide cated transportation planner Public Transit ƒ Parking minimum instead of parking maximum ƒ Get private industry to buy into public transit for workforce & retail customers ƒ More flexibility in zoning & form based zoning ƒ Implementation of a Hub & Spoke Plan ƒ Walking signals—image intervals for crossing ƒ Newburgh & Beacon work together as sister street Cities on transit: Example, better service of ƒ Money for community organizations for ferry for night and weekends do-it-yourself tactical projects ƒ Open data for companies to access/ tracker ƒ Simplify inter-county interstate for all public Transit Systems (e.g., NY-NJ-PA) travel ƒ More outreach—do surveys on buses, go to ƒ Eliminate or change cab regulations & dial-a- cafes, activity centers, etc. bus regulations that restrict where drivers can ƒ Report back on meetings pick up people. ƒ Clear connection between land use and transportation Big Ideas: Transit and Other ƒ Carpool within religious communities Transportation Services: ƒ Educate and inform citizens ƒ Greater intra-county connectivity ƒ Target Demographics: churches, Public Transit Coverage ƒ More easily accessible information ƒ Greater use of Port Jervis line for local/ intra- Big Ideas: Transportation Data and county travel—connect buses at rail stations Information Technology: ƒ Late night and weekend service ƒ More coordination of various systems: reli- ƒ More aggressive marketing of public transit able, steady routes and times options ƒ Smaller buses more frequent trips ƒ Find out accurately where people need trans- portation services ƒ Expand ferry services beyond commuting hours: Consider beginning iterations during ƒ Flex bus information high regional events, weekend, during the ƒ More GIS analysis & reporting to media summer, mostly related to arts and cultural ƒ Notification of disruptive services is immedi- activates ately necessary ƒ Re: Ferries: Make sure they operate during the ƒ Innovate—have competitions Winter months (ice-breakers) ƒ Uniformity in branding, combine school Big Ideas: Transportation system and transit systems Technologies:

Big Ideas: How We Plan, Design, ƒ Waze Car Pooling / Google Maps Deliver, and Manage the Transpor- ƒ Use existing apps, not reinvent the wheel tation System: ƒ Put schedule on open place

ƒ Should be seamless and 1 system not a patchwork of several

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Public Workshop #2

The second public engagement workshop took place on July 24, 2019 from 4pm-6pm at the Mulberry House Senior Center in Middletown, NY and focused on both soliciting additional input and presenting draft projects and strategies to the public and stakeholders, considering both projects recommended for the TIP and longer-term strategies and recommendations for the LRTP update.

Compared to Public Workshop #1, public participation was low at Public Workshop #2. Fewer than five mem- bers of the public attended the workshop and provided input. However, OCTC staff and members of the consultant team also visited Middletown Thrall Library, which had more visitors, during the workshop to try to solicit feedback. A summary of the feedback that we received is summarized below:

ƒ Big Ideas: One person expressed a need to retrain drivers for the new technology being implemented in cars (such as automated features). Another would like to see a greater focus on motorcycle safety, par- ticularly pertaining to pavement conditions and distracted drivers. In addition, one person wishes to see trains prioritized as a regional transportation choice in Orange County, as Amtrak is too expensive.

ƒ Transit: There were many participants that expressed comments pertaining to transit availability in the Middletown area. In general, cabs/taxis are too expensive for regular use. The perception is that bus stops are hard to identify, some are not sure where local service bus stops are located and where they are going, and local transit service has limited hours. In addition, some would like to see a local service connection from Middletown to Scotchtown, which has numerous housing complexes that are not currently serviced.

ƒ Corridor-Specific: One person identified Kings Highway in Sugar Loaf (Town of Chester) as a high- volume bicycle/pedestrian corridor. However, with low visibility at night it makes it difficult to see non- motorized users, which is a major safety issue.

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Public Workshop #3

The third public engagement workshop took place on November 6, 2019 from 7pm-9pm at the South Orange Family YMCA in Monroe, NY. The workshop each LRTP chapter and focused on soliciting additional input from the public about the final contents and organization.

Compared to Public Workshop #2, public participation at the event was slightly higher. Approximately eight members of the public attended the workshop and provided input. An online survey was also posted on November 6th to provide an opportunity for members of the public to share feedback if they were unable to attend the workshop in person. A summary of the feedback that we received from both the public workshop and online survey is summarized below:

ƒ Participants ranked each of Orange County’s four LRTP goals according to priority, as shown on the below:

Votes Cast

Highest Lowest LRTP Goal Priority (=1) 2 3 3 Priority (=4)

People in Orange County will have transportation options 15 5 1 3 that offer safe, affordable, convenient, and reliable access to employment, education, health care, and the goods, services, social interactions, and recreational opportunities that meet their daily needs.

A seamless, connected, efficient transportation system will 47310 support the needs of existing businesses and encourage future growth of emerging industries, providing residents with well-paying jobs

Transportation assets and services will be maintained, 3 6 12 4 managed, and operated throughout their lifecycles to use limited resources effectively, achieving and maintaining a state of good repair, remaining robust and secure in the face of discrete hazards and threats, and exhibiting resilience to long-term changes.

Coordinated transportation, land use, economic devel- 3777 opment, energy, and sustainability policies and decisions will complement each other to create economic value and enhance quality of life in Orange County's communities, in support of their visions and plans for the future, and promote responsible stewardship of the environment and natural resources.

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ƒ Participants were asked to choose their top five of Orange County’s transportation objectives based on priority. The results of this exercise are shown below:

LRTP Objective Number of Votes

Reduce fatalities and serious injuries for people driving, walking, and biking. 14

Increase number and share of trips made by biking, walking, and transit. 13

Maintain or improve travel time reliability on Orange County's roadway network. 17

Reduce bottlenecks and gaps in the freight transportation network. 2

Maintain or improve travel time reliability on Orange County's roadway network for freight and 11 people moving in trucks, transit, and motor vehicles.

Reduce freight transportation costs and travel time needed to move raw materials, ports, and 3 finished goods through supply chains and distribution networks.

Increase the number of visitors using passenger rail and bus services to access destinations in 15 Orange County.

Increase the share of transportation assets in good condition. 4

Reduce the share of transportation assets in poor condition. 4

Reduce the person-hours of disruption die to closed roads and rail lines. 8

Increase the number of jobs that can be accessed within 30 minutes by walking, biking, driving, 11 and transit.

Reduce vehicle miles of travel per capita. 6

Reduce the share of greenhouse gas emissions and other emissions from transportation sources. 6

ƒ Participants were asked, “In your own words, how will we know if our investments in transportation are moving us in the right direction?”. The responses OCTC received are below:

» Less cars on the road, and more employment opportunities for zero-vehicle households.

» Direct rail connection to downtown Newburgh

» When the traffic is managed better

» If traffic throughout the county is reduced significantly, especially in southern portion; when train service runs more frequently and second track installed so continuous trains can travel all day; when exorbitant taxes paid in NY repair the pathetic pot holed roads we have now. When State and County roads don’t have to crumble into oblivion to be repaired, and are done on a regular mainte- nance schedule.

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» Citizen surveys at appropriate locations; feedback from local government and organizations con- cerned with these issues

» Increase in public transit and decrease in number of cars on the road. Ability of residents to find jobs locally versus communing to NYC.

» When I can travel the Quickway, Thruway and Rt. 6 from the Palisades Pkwy. Without getting stuck in traffic jams.

» Through surveys, reducing congestion, reducing accidents

» When people are able to consistently use transportation systems in OC.

» If there is positive movement toward Meeting goals.

» If we see a leveling off and eventual decrease in the congestion on our roadways.

» Thank you for including the importance of alternative transportation options and reducing the use of non renewable energy sources in the objectives. We must address climate change/greenhouse gas emissions in our long range planning.

» People will be able to travel in and out of the area without sitting in traffic for extended periods of time. People who want to live here for a long time, and be able to get to their jobs and recreational activities, without sitting in traffic for extended amounts of time. People will be able to visit the area and enjoy all that we have to offer, without sitting in traffic for extended amounts of time.

» When there are no overflowing cars parked on grass at the Park and Rides. We need to either slow down the level of development in the county or invest in the infrastructure to support it. We are putting the cart before the horse by building so many homes with poor commuter facilities that are already overcrowded.

» When we see more efficient transportation travel

» For me this is a personal one, its going to be based on whether or not I can make it home on the same day as a weekday Mets game. For the county, I think you would want to see an increase in ridership on commuter rail and increased utilization of park-and-rides.

» Less time spent sitting at a standstill on 17

» Measure traffic at bottlenecks, in Monroe a bad one is at Bakertown Rd, Ninniger Rd and Larkin Dr. Also, Route 17M from Shop Rite to Stop and Shop. Also Perhaps more options to travel from Orange County to Buffalo, Albany and other college towns. My one daughter takes a bus from Albany to Ridgewood, NJ, and my other takes a train from Buffalo to Poughkeepsie. Local stations would be helpful.

» If we can accomplish a high volume and frequency of transit availability into and out of the county, that supports local business and tourism.

» We will be moving in the right direction if congestion is reduced. This will be a quality of life improve-

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ment for residents, an incentive to invest/grow in the county for business and industry and will help reduce pollution.

» By physically, walking, biking or driving on Orange County’s roadways, seeing if traffic conditions are reduced, if less “18 wheelers” are using local roads and highways, if public safety is increased, if emergency and first responders see a reduction in vehicle involved emergencies. Also placing utilities underground to improve viability, reduce eye sores, improve safety and reliability, and also allow for Future and further expansion of roads, sidewalks and parks.

ƒ Participants were asked to choose their top five enhancements to Orange County’s transportation net- work based on priority. The results of this exercise are shown below. “Improving the condition of roadway pavement and bridges” was the top priority transportation enhancement according to respondent feedback.

Transportation Enhancement Number of Votes

Making it easier and safer to get places on foot or by bike. 10

Reducing crashes on highways and local roads. 16

Making transit trips faster and more reliable, and providing service to more destinations. 22

Improving the condition of roadway pavement and bridges. 20

Adding lanes and building new roads. 17

Making it easier and cheaper to move freight around the county and to/from places outside the 7 county.

Using technology to make existing infrastructure operate more efficiently 18

ƒ Participants were asked, “What areas of the County’s transportation system are of environmental con- cern to you?”. Responses to this question include:

» Threats: 1.) tight funding 2.) Climate Change and increased flooding/natural disasters 3.) increased volume from tourism industry Opportunity: 1.) Work with NYSDOT to incorporate incremental improvements to Rt. 17 2.) Use this as an opportunity to offer multi-modal options to decrease VMT

» The additional traffic that will be coming from Amy's Kitchen and LEGOLAND. I am concerned about the traffic on 17M in New Hampton. Also, the traffic back up that currently happens at the intersection of county route 50 and 17M.

» None

» Lack of regular/reliable bus services to travel within the County (i.e.,: to work, shopping, medical, etc.); more emphasis should be placed on alternative transportation options

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» Park & Rides, Airports

» None

» Why is this survey so heavily weighted on environmental issues??? I get that it is part of a good transit system but it is also about reaching people who can't afford cars can't get to work to a doctors office. Employers who need employees. Tourism.

» Three cities

» All areas; we need to increase use of renewable energy sources, use of public transit options, and non motorized transportation options.

» Heritage trail

» Commuter hubs in low-lying areas or near protected wetlands and watersheds.

» No opinion.

» Route 17, Orange Turnpike, Lakes Rd., Route 208

» State parks.

» I think our biggest opportunity is to maximize the use of any means of transit other than single occu- pancy automobile trips. More buses, ride sharing, safe places to walk and bike are all good options to reduce pollution and congestion.

» Cars = greenhouse gases. Limited public transit, esp passenger rail, to NYC. Limited/nonexistent bike pathways.

» I-87, I-86, SR-94, ST-208, SR17 and 17M and SR-32. All of these major roadways are located near or along streams, creeks and major waterways that are vital to local public safety and their economies. They also pose poor air quality in the areas around them, with 90% of schools are located directly off of them, this is of grave concern for children's health and development.

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ƒ Participants were asked to rank four of Orange County’s environmental/resiliency implementation strat- egies based on priority. The results of this exercise are shown below. “Make other targeted investments in new transportation capacity where aligned with economic development, land use, and sustainability plans and policies” was by far the strategy considered to be the highest priority among this stakeholder group.

Votes Cast

Highest Lowest Environmental/Resiliency Implementation Strategy Priority (=1) 2 3 3 Priority (=4)

Support implementation of the transportation recommenda- 0573 tions in the NYS Energy Plan, including the ChargeNY initiative, which seeks to build a bridge to a self-sustaining market for plug-in electric vehicles powered by large-scale renewable energy sources.

Implement recommendations in the Orange County and 4326 NYS Hazard Mitigation Plans and the adaptation strategies identified in “Adapting to Climate Change in New York State" specific to and interdependent with transportation.

Establish and maintain cooperative partnerships with federal, 5552 state and local agencies to mitigate adverse impacts from projected climatic shifts, prepare emergency response and recovery plans for the types of events that can be anticipated, and proactively adapt the transportation system to reduce the likelihood and consequences of disruptions.

Make other targeted investments in new transportation ca- 10 4 2 3 pacity where aligned with economic development, land use, and sustainability plans and policies.

ƒ Participants were asked, “In your own words, how relevant are transportation system decisions to the environmental quality of the County in 2045?” Responses to this question include:

» No concern

» Very relevant as the County continues to grow in population and number of gas-powered vehicles on our roads.

» Very Relevant

» Maintaining efficient train and bus transportation to NYC is vital to Orange county's economy. Main- tain a well kept highway and secondary road system for cars and trucks is vital to our economy. Keep "bike lanes" out of main transportation routes!

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» I haven't seen much smog in OC recently

» Very relevant for air pollution

» Extremely relevant!

» VERY relevant. We must engage county/city/town leadership in developing and implementing land use planning/transportation system planning in reducing our use of non renewable energy sources.

» Don't waste government resources on temporary subsidies for electric or hybrid vehicles. Also don't waste resources on bike transportation- this isn't Manhattan, no one rides a bike to work.

» We have to try to ensure that businesses do not destroy the land around us.

» Very relevant. By 2045, we will hopefully have a better network of electric or alternate energy modes of travel.

» Frankly, environmental quality isn't a huge factor in deciding where and how I get to work. I am going use whatever mode is going to get me there the quickest and the cheapest.

» These decisions are minor and involve ineffective ideas. The wind will blow Monroe's exhaust away by 2045, and will blow exhaust form other Towns into our area. If we participate in a large Federal or International Plan, that's alright but if we take on extra expense to just bring electric car chargers to the area that really doesn't change anything.

» Very

» These very choices will impact us immediately but with thoughtful and careful planning and policies it could be a very smooth transition by the time 2045 comes. The county is very rural and farmland like and should be maintained at all costs, high density housing threatens the environmental quality and traffic drastically.

ƒ Participants were asked, “For each of the four categories, tell us which strategies you are most excited to see implemented in Orange County.” Responses include:

» Safety Strategies (Examples: Strategies that address safety for pedestrians, bicycles, vehicle crash reduction, highway-rail grade crossings, and safety education.)

– Providing more pedestrian access and reducing speed limits.

– Support any and all safety issues noted above; access best-practices utilized in other similar loca- tions throughout the country (or world)

– Highway-rail crossing. Vehicle crash reduction

– Safety is always important.

– Safety for pedestrians and bicycles

– How can we improve our design of non motorized transportation options in Orange County?

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– Vehicle crash reduction

– Bicycle lanes because they are making a menace on narrow roadways and 40 mph roads mak- ing it dangerous for drivers and themselves

– Chevron signs at tight turns. Especially ones with frequent crashes.

– We need more sidewalks and larger breakdown lanes. The Hasidic population does a lot of walk- ing and tends to wear black. Despite conflicts between the Hasidic and other local populations, nobody wants accidents and to see people hurt.

– More designated biking lanes. You already see this in other towns & counties, we seem to be late to the party. Our area is beautiful, biking can be even more popular and useful with safer lanes.

– I feel like the best way to improve safety is to maintain and upgrade our transportation systems. This includes making improvements to existing systems as well as embracing new technologies.

– There is a need to move forward on all these fronts, difficult to elevate one over another.

– Vehicle crash reduction, safety of pedestrians and emergency responders.

» Preservation & Modernization Strategies (Examples: Improving roadway pavement, bridges and culverts, retaining structures, and other roadway and transit assets.)

– All of the above.

– Very important

– Always important to maintain our infrastructure

– Improving transit assets

– Now you are talking. Our infrastructure is a nightmare.

– Improving bottlenecks

– Focus on transit needs/bike lanes/walkways, less focus on roads/bridges.

– Improving roadway pavement

– Very important.

– Will help to keep the roads possibly pothole free

– Improve sight lines at junctions by cutting vegetation more in the summer.

– Everyone hates the crushed stone. Does it really cost so much more to blacktop roads? I think I'd be willing to pay extra for that, and would at least like to know the price difference.

– Currently this area does generally well with road maintenance and upkeep of retaining structures, etc.

– There is a need to move forward on all these fronts, difficult to elevate one over another.

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– Retaining structures, better built and longer lasting assets like bridges and roadways. Pothole patching should be done by cutting a larger section around the pothole then leveled and paved instead of shotty patches that cause worse and further roadway deterioration.

» Active Transportation Demand Management Strategies (Examples: Implementing all-electronic tolling and removing toll barriers on the NYS Thruway, upgrading traffic signal systems, and pro- viding better real-time information of transportation system conditions and travel options.)

– Providing real time information

– Important

– These improvements will improve traffic flow and are certainly important

– All electronic tolls

– Better real-time info

– Example: the removal of toll collection on the NYS Thruway.

– Keep the traffic moving.

– Riding better real time information of transportation system conditions and travel options

– Very important. Coach USA buses frequently do not even show up on weekends, with no way to get status updates or talk to anyone at the company.

– It has helped with the traffic by Harriman tremendously

– Late night traffic lights go green when a car is waiting but no other traffic in any other direction.

– The Town's traffic lights are no coordinated properly and its easy to hit several red lights in a row between Larkin Drive and the McDonalds at the corner of 17M and Still Rd. Also, please have blinking yellow lights at night, maybe after 10pm. I sometimes come home around midnight and stop at 5 lights with nobody else on the road at all. That's not safety, that's just silly.

– Upgrading traffic signal systems. In some areas this is a joke. Sensors/timers are either non-exis- tent or operate poorly. Newer & improved technology is sorely needed.

– Using technology that actively monitors traffic flow to make real time decisions on signals at intersections would be helpful. Nothing more frustrating than sitting at a stop light behind a row of cars while no traffic is coming through the green light on the crossroad.

– Implementing all-electronic tolling and removing toll barriers on the NYS Thruway and this should be pushed for on all toll roadways, the NYS Bridge Authority operates ten years in the past, they should remove all toll barriers immediately, or install high speed E-ZPass lanes. Upgrading and improving traffic signal systems, installing turning only lanes where they are des- perately needed and providing better real-time information of transportation system conditions and travel options through instant reader boards that are maintained timely.

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» System Reliability, Accessibility, and Connectivity Strategies (Examples: Improving walking and bicycling infrastructure, more robust transit service, job access programs, innovative mobility options, and growth management.)

– More robust transit service

– Better public transportation is highly important.

– Dedicated bike lanes; safer crosswalks in high-traffic areas; improved signage; expanded options to access employment centers are all vital

– Job access & more robust public transit

– MORE ROBUST TRANSIT SERVICE!!!

– VERY important. I am a member of the OCCF Pathways Committee; we have a mission state- ment that focuses upon non motorized transportation options.

– Increasing Coach USA buses and improving park and rides would drive population growth for people making more money in areas that typically have higher salaries (NYC/Westchester). This will increase tax revenue across the board locally.

– More robust transit service

– Need larger Park and Ride commuter lots, especially in Chester. More than half the commuters park in a private area in Lowes across a dangerous highway. This is unacceptable.

– Bicycle lanes because they are making a menace on narrow roadways and 40 mph roads mak- ing it dangerous for drivers and themselves

– More sidewalks and crossings.

– I guess bicycles would be a cute idea, but we really lack the sidewalks, breakdown lanes and bicycle lanes to use them safely. More bus and train stops that help one get to Buffalo, Albany and college towns would help, not everyone goes to NYC.

– Adding lanes on Route 17, especially with Lego on the way. Summer weekend traffic is sometimes horrendous. I've already mentioned the lack of public transit options, and improvements on bicycle infrastructure.

– There is a need to move forward on all these fronts, difficult to elevate one over another.

– Improving sidewalks that are separate from roadways and more pedestrian crosswalks that are safer. Bike lanes that are also removed for roadways with bike designated lanes

ƒ Participants were asked, “How can we involve all the right people in our decisions about transportation in Orange County? Who is missing from this conversation?” Responses include:

» Local Planning and Zoning Board officials

» The public who uses the roads and public transportation every day. Get on a bus or a train during

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rush hour and talk to the people. Come to municipalities and talk to the local leaders about massive traffic issues. Wake up your planning commission and have them actually address intermunicipal issues like when one municipality plans a massive development which will dump its traffic into a neighboring one, instead of ignoring it.

» Hopefully business & industry is represented.

» All of the above and conduct public information hearings.

» The people in the cities (N, M, PJ) who will never see or respond to this survey. Senior citizens. Health- care professionals and folks who work in social services. They all know the REAL needs.

» Feds, if Trump wasn't president

» The working class people and senior citizens in smaller towns, that have limited access to transporta- tion to go to work or appointments.

» Improving how we communicate with public members. I do not use Facebook/Twitter; not sure how the OCTC has reached out to a wide array of public members? I have participated in OC forums in the past.

» Most people who commute far distances don't have time to attend workshops. Online surveys like this are fantastic.

» Officials from surrounding counties. This would be helpful in coordinating transit between counties and shared roadways

» There are TOO many agencies involved and they kick the ball to each other with nothing getting done. I have worked on bringing attention to the Chester parking problem and was told I would need to coordinate the Village Board, the State DOT, Coach USA and Orange County. FOUR agencies just to get an expanded lot for TAXPAYERS who are bringing NYC money back to Orange County?! Ridicu- lous bureaucracy.

» Frankly, when a larger government says they're going to work with a smaller community, they mean they're going to talk to the elected representatives, and unless they have other jobs that require them to move outside of their municipality, their opinion is uneducated and ill-informed. The best thing you can do is talk to the people that ride the rail network and the people that work there to find out what your missing. This applies to the freight network as well. I think you'll find that just listening to those who use this stuff everyday whether they want to or not will have the most valuable thoughts and ideas on this. I can tell you that I have roughly two hours everyday on a train to figure out how I would make this system better. I can't think I am the only one who's had similar thoughts. To do this, you're going to have to hold several late night or weekend, town hall style meetings so that those people who do ride the rails or use the freight network have a chance to interact with the decision makers and they in turn can provide a better service.

» Transportation workers, dot workers

» Skoufis loves this stuff so talk to him. I suppose reaching out to Town Boards, Planning Boards and

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those who have shown that they can contribute time to the community besides just griping about it on Facebook is a good move. I might include the town Republican and Democratic Committees as well.

» Just bring more attention down to the local levels. Local townships should from around the county should periodically meet to share knowledge, information, ideas, and concerns.

» In an effort to help coordinate decision making, a transportation council made up of local municipal executives, board members and planners would be nice. The ability to discuss the effects of decisions on local municipalities or even better, work together on improvements, would be great.

» Continue reaching out to local gov'ts. Post notices/hold forums with rail/bus commuters. Local bike shops.

» Local residents, emergency responders and management, local elected officials, Transportation heads, state and federal elected officials should all have an equal voice and say. Transportation should not be used for political reasons such as the governor does now.

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SUMMARY OF WEBSITE COMMENT FORMS/ SURVEYS There were two web-based surveys developed for public comment to help inform the LRTP development. The first survey focused on ideas for Orange County’s transportation system, and the second survey focused on key highways of concern, potential future transit routes, and potential future bicycle/pedestrian corridors.

Public Survey #1

Over 100 people responded to the first public » The railroad needs to have express trains survey, which was open from mid-May to mid-Au- that travel into Grand Central every day. gust. Respondents provided feedback on the This will increase property values as existing system, ranked the system’s strengths and people will want to move here more if the weaknesses, and submitted ideas for improve- commute for work would be much shorter. ment in six topic areas. The majority of respon- » dents were from Newburgh (28), Warwick (11), More coordination of road closures at the Middletown (9), New Windsor (8), and Port Jervis same time. Establish 311 line for closures. (7), but there were also a number of other munici- » Roads are in poor repair in smaller com- palities represented, including Goshen, Montgom- munities, transportation in more rural ery, and Pine Bush for a total of 30 municipalities. areas almost none existent. Trails, side- The majority of ideas submitted by the general walks buses non existent in rural areas. public were infrastructure projects for people and freight. Although the comments were mixed, » Walking to where I need to go sounds respondents generally wanted to see expanded lovely but it is not going to happen in availability of multimodal options and increased Greenville. So infrastructure regarding public transit service. Others commented nega- transportation might not help me. tively about new development (i.e., LEGOLAND) » Get more trains and buses to connect. and increasing density. » Add a train stop at Woodbury Common The ideas submitted as part of this survey, organized by topic area, are featured below: » Plan for automation of freight movement.

ƒ Topic: Infrastructure projects for people » Better road conditions. More lanes on and freight route 17 and 84. No LEGOLAND.

» Bus line to/from Port Jervis and Middle- » Improve the rail system. town. More truck freight should be flow in » at our local airport, not NYC. There could be light rail connected more areas to each other. Would love to see » Adding bus line services between commu- more intercity bus loops (like in Beacon) nities across the county would enhance the and maybe even a trolley system to lives of communities such as Port Jervis and Newburgh that could extend to Light rail Sparrowbush that need to travel outside connecting Newburgh to Middletown to these communities to gain employment. Port Jervis. Would also be great to see a

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system set up that will Link the town/city » Encourage freight companies to move hubs to the new Lego Land and places during night time hours. like Storm King. » Separate roadways for large tractor » This survey is too focused on cars. Public trailer trucks similar to portions of the transit like trains and buses is the answer. New Jersey turnpike. The trucks can Increasing car usage through ride share deliver to central hubs where goods are apps and the like turns daily life into a then delivered locally by "greener" vehi- gridlock nightmare. cles. Tractor trailer trucks on local roads also contribute to their poor condition. » I would like to see more dedicated bicycle lanes/paths. More sidewalks around our » Fix the pot holes. schools. Less potholes as our roads are » crumbling beneath us! A stop light on RT 32 by Old North Plank Road and/or better enforcement of speed » Don't like the idea of mixing businesses limit for cars on RT32 coming from rt 84 into residential areas (or visa versa), this or rt 9W or put in a pedestrian managed will bring down housing resale values. If stop light. we are looking towards the future then » spreading things out and having more Widen Route 9W From Bridge to Marl- traffic will not be an issue if self driving boro. vehicles are used as they are more effi- » Widen secondary roads. cient at communicating with each other and obeying traffic signals/laws and » Bridges and roads must be maintained will cut traveling time and make it safer. on a regular basis. We need to focus on Also consider solar roadways that could sidewalks and bike ways/bike lanes that power road signs, warm the surface to will reduce our carbon footprint. fight black ice and snow and allow elec- » Design truck routes away from town of tric cars to charge while driving (maybe a Newburgh. revenue source?). » Focus on environmentally friendly and » Add bike lanes to roads, make intersec- safe public transportation systems, walk- tions and roads generally more pedes- ing and biking safely. Less warehouses trian friendly. and polluting, large trucks. » Increase bike lanes, side walks to promote » Passenger Rail to Stewart Airport 7 Day/ healthy communities, more parks and Week Ferry Service from Newburgh to playgrounds. Bus system that the one can Beacon to promote use of Metro North. use for commuting in Orange county » Increase train choices. Increase options » Use technology to avoid congestion on from Stewart Airport and keep them crowded roadways affordable. » Cross county bike Lanes In city bike Lanes » As previously stated, better North-South Pedestrian foot paths Cross county bus public transit on the west side of the lines Hudson.

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» Ensure roads and signage are consistent ƒ Topic: New laws & regulations and safe. Ensure freight uses main inter- » states and not local roads to cause more Warwick really needs to work on the town traffic, environmental and safety issues. drug problems, by fixing these problems it will be a safer place for new families to » Planning Boards need to consider the move in. Way to many bars in Warwick impact of huge projects on transporta- are dealing drugs out of them and way to tion on the capacity of existing transpor- many people are getting sick and dying. tation. » More hands-on training and free training » Mass transit and human powered for new drivers. options need to be improved. Bike lanes, » sidewalks, wide shoulders. Will most likely be moving out of the area due to the rapid development of high » Make Broadway in the City of Newburgh density housing which is ruining the area a safer road for pedestrians. Change the and my current way of life. parking spots to parallel parking along » Broadway. Use the extra space to provide Traffic laws need to be enforced much a center median with trees and benches more strongly. Ignoring stop signs and to allow easy crossing and also beautify red lights is normal for some people. the city. Add municipal parking lots to » Grants and companies to help pay for make up for lost parking spaces. trails, sidewalks, road repair, trails. Bus » Fix the I-84-Route 9W interchange. It should expansion to rural areas. be a clover leaf and add a sidewalk. » Bold visionary regulations around envi- » Expand Stewart Airport. ronmental impacts - greater incentives for car sharing and lack of car ownership. » Sound walls along I-84 – transportation » noise is a quality of life issue. It would be great to get HOV lanes on the major highways, new bus lane laws and » Have regular bus service to different a rails to trails program in the county. areas in Orange County. Would be nice » to have rail service to NYC using the Police to enforce all traffic laws! railroad going through Warwick which is » The increase in tolls for bridges etc. are only used for freight. going to make travel less desirable.

» Develop reliable infrastructure for com- » Use the taxes we have appropriately! Cut muting to the city in winter and develop the governors pay and reallocate the places for cyclists to ride that keeps them money to our infrastructure!! off the roads or limits their access on roads especially those with heavy traffic » Don't need more regulations. patterns. Stop the poorly applied pothole » Need to enforce the existing laws. patches and fix them the correct way. Schools, and garbage collection com- panies should use more alternative fuels/ electric vehicles.

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» I live on D'Alfonso road and recently a » How about laws that protect trucker solar powered radar/speed sign was safety? installed. I've noticed an improvement » in car speeds on the road. Thinking of Too many people run red lights. Install before the adaptation of self driving cameras inside the traffic signals and cars I think an increase of these types of send tickets to these people. This technol- signs would be a big help. Maybe also ogy is already being used for E-ZPass. This the same or some type of signs remind- could also help fund infrastructure repair. ing people they need to make a full stop » Not your domain, but we need an infra- before making a "right on red", so many structure bill at the Federal level. times every day I see cars barely touch the brakes when making a right turn. » Return passenger rail to the west side of the Hudson. Put a lid on Uber and » Forcing any new construction of business Lyft. They abuse their workers, and it is to include side walks and bike racks. Tax immoral to defund or ignore public tran- breaks for less car ownership per house. sit in favor of that sort of business. Employers paying or reimbursing staff who use public transportation instead of » Truck and Uber/Lyft drivers need fair pay driving to work. and employee protections No self-driving vehicle fleets before they've been suffi- » More traffic cameras will prevent more ciently tested. accidents. More police. Education on respecting on coming emergency vehicles. » Stop panhandling at the exit ramps.

» Enforce the existing laws first such as » The road in and out of Warwick all need sped limits on narrow country streets. to be redone and no more potholes, we Improve zoning so that high traffic busi- need better turning lanes in some areas. nesses (i.e., wineries) are not located in » Congestion pricing tolls. residential neighborhoods. Enforce park- ing laws at local schools (people block » In urban areas light the sidewalks mainly, the front of buildings rather than parking the street secondarily. in the designated area and walking a » hundred yards). Cyclists need to follow rules of the road and there should be penalties if they » No road improvements without widening don't. Keep them off the roads as much shoulders/installing sidewalks. as possible.

» Limit which roads that tractor trailers can » We need stricter laws for businesses to ride on. Don't allow them to travel 55 mph stop serving alcohol after 12am too many on secondary roads with no shoulder. people getting into accidents.

» Revisit speeds in towns and on local roads. » Force transportation providers to enact inclement weather routes that service all » Moratorium on warehouses and trucking normal stops on the route. businesses.

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ƒ Topic: Transit and other transportation as new businesses enter the area and services document the need for finances for road or signal upgrades. » Develop a bus line route across Orange County. » I think it would be a good idea to try to attract more airlines to Stewart airport. » Re-instate more passenger train lines on Expand and promote the Metro-North, the west side of the Hudson. Link smaller Pascack and Port Jervis rails for local and cities to each other and to the mass tran- vacation travel options. sit hubs heading to NYC and Albany with more options. Get train to Stewart airport » More ways to travel. from other train lines & more shuttle » services to Stewart (not just from NYC but Many years ago, Warwick had a plan- from other cities as well). ning sessions about creating bicycle/ walking paths from the various hamlets » More express trains. to the village and to the strip malls just south of town. » Less redundancy of paratransit car sharing and resource sharing among » Solar roadways. municipalities. » Perhaps implement a local bus service, » More times for buses and trains. More like the Loop bus in Dutchess County, that buses from Newburgh, Middletown, serves residents along the 17 corridor. Port Jervis, Goshen. Repair roads and » pot holes. Widen roads where traffic is Mass transportation for short and long extensive. trips need to be a priority. » » Dial a bus hours extended. Public transportation based on green energy...no fossil fuels. » Establish more bus services with safer » and more defined bus stops. More bus routes needed throughout Orange County. » More sidewalks, bike lanes needed. » More transportation options i.e. reason- » Fix our roads. able price car service and public trans- portation. » Better rail service to NYC and within Orange County. » Try to expand with as few complicated laws as possible. » If cameras and computers are used to control traffic signals it could make » Better public transportation system espe- intersections more efficient and safer. cially with seniors in mind. Also if the cameras are tied into the police » it could be a valuable tool to gather Traffic information systems for people information about traffic accidents and and cars to connect to, if connected to even relay that info to responding offi- traffic signals this could help emergency cers. These types of traffic cameras could vehicles to automatically change signals also be used to see evolving traffic issues as they approach and send an auto-

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matic warning to cars in the area to pull » Design w/ ecology and environment as right and allow them to pass safely. a priority. Affordable and accessible for community to access. Safe bus stops. Bike » Put in a rail line to Warwick. lanes. » Provide public transportation between » Designated routes that take heavy com- Newburgh and Beacon that operates mercial traffic away from Newburgh. beyond commuter travel times. » Enforce the traffic laws and therefore, will » Light Rail. be less accidents. » Warwick needs a central bus station » A 5, 10, 15 and 20 year plan should be that's out of the way for traffic to pass, implemented and be flexible enough to possibly get its own railroad station to change. Find consultants that have previ- travel between towns and cities safely. ously been successful planners. » Work with airlines to get more direct » Many people in Orange County rely solely flights out of Stewart. on their cars. Maybe more people would ƒ Topic: How we plan, design, deliver, and use public transportation if they were manage the system more aware and therefore comfortable with it. Rail travel is relatively expensive. If » Include rural twin input. more people took advantage of rail travel and public transportation such as buses, » I am firmly behind building an Orange operating costs might possibly be cov- County partnership with the Catskills area ered by volume of travelers rather than and the East side of the Hudson to create higher cost for the individual. a Hudson Valley Mid-State transportation authority that is separate but works with » Dialogue with the state. Some state roads the MTA to address the needs of the area. in the town of Newburgh have serious impact on safety of pedestrians as well » What is the basic checklist for transporta- as vehicular traffic. State does not seem tion planners and transit apps to ensure to care...even after repeated accidents equity, wayfinding, tech access etc.? (rt 32/Old North Plank road area). » Hire more people to repair roads and » Municipalities need to take into account drive buses. Lower taxis rates. Especially how commercial traffic will impact not when people have to travel from town to only their area, but the entire county. town. » I don't understand why this is a County » I think these surveys are an excellent way thing. Shouldn't we be working and to get ideas from the residents and make connecting with communities throughout them feel included in the process, as the Hudson Valley? My guess is that the much as possible they should be contin- most useful routes are between Orange ued. and Dutchess or Westchester or NYC, not » Assess county growth Then use MTA within Orange County. How are you coor- funds to pay for improvement dinating with MTA or Port Authority?

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» Single-seat train (single as in not having » Keep it simple. to go to Hoboken & then hop another » train). Utilize cell phone data to better plan for road improvements. » Leverage the existing rail network to » allow people to move between towns Real-time updates via apps. and to NYC. » Encourage business in the county to » Create a public task force and run multi- allow work from home. ple feedback sessions. » Begin by using the data that is already » More charging stations. available. For example, Citibike has a plethora of data but still can't seem to be » Better police patrol Sat. nights on roads able to consistently balance the stations near local bars... so that bikes & parking spaces are avail- able during peak times. » A coordinated system of signage at the local level, street signs are not consistent. » Sensors in roadways could be used to gather traffic patterns, average speeds, Topic: Transportation data and informa- ƒ and from what I have read the road lines tion technology and arrows are LEDs that are powered by » Use it to improve access to colleges, jobs, solar so no line/arrow painting/repainting entertainment and health. and also they can be remotely changed to compensate for construction or traffic » Create a system that allows the various conditions or emergencies. elements to work together (as in the Neth- erlands) where systems talk to each other » A reliable way of telling how soon the and transit payments can go across next train or bus is coming will give platforms- one payment system. Create people the confidence to trust public information systems that update this info transit. Other than that, I don't see what immediately. else is necessary, seems like it would be a distraction from real issues. » Open data more accountability by pri- vate companies. » Create easy to find information for every- one in our community! » Provide opportunity to book fares elec- tronically. » Ignoring privacy considerations, I'm sure you could buy our Google travel histories » Train schedules need to be more fre- and data mine it for the most popular quently updated and easier to access. routes. Then randomly survey people Finding train times at places like Tuxedo who use those routes and see how willing are not easy. There is no main screen to they are to try alternative transportation tell you train times. options, under what conditions and for what price.. These types of studies will tell » Create easy to find information for every- you which tradeoffs people are willing to one in our community! make.

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ƒ Topic: Transportation technologies » I thought for sure I would have a flying car by now :) Other things that probably » Lots of charging stations for electric cars. won't happen in my lifetime but I would » New technologies could be implemented like to see: bullet train between Albany that use solar power (luminescent road- and NYC with stops in Hudson Valley, ways), road technology that can adapt non-trucking way to get deliveries to NYC. to weather changes and therefore with- » Stay up to date as possible. Use what stand the environmental events better. works currently and upgrade and we » Publish bus schedules in print as well as move into the future. online. Have help and chat lines for info » Provide low cost public transportation manned by people who are polite and that runs continuously with hop on / hop respectful. off ability in dense locations like the New- » Not sure.....not so comfortable with self burgh waterfront. driving vehicles yet.

» Submit information to Google and Waze to request traffic be routed to main roads. Submit information to these apps for areas where truck traffic should not be routed.

» As electric cars become more prevalent, add more charging stations in public parking lots.

» Bikes Walking.

» Just a next train or bus notification system. I don't see what else could be needed.

» Solar roads (federal eco grants) Elec- tric vehicles (municipal vehicles could be recharged by solar roads) this may qualify for federal eco grant money while saving from having to buy gas.

» Keep is as simple—and safe - as possible

» Blinking SLOW signs in pedestrian areas , (especially places where pedestrians cross state roads such as 32, 9w etc.) that could be programmed for commuter rush hour time. Better enforcement of laws not to be on cell phone while driving!

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Public Survey #2

There were 125 people that responded to the second survey, which focused generating input from users on key highways of concern, potential future transit routes, and potential future bicycle/pedestrian corridors. The majority of respondents were from Newburgh (46), Tuxedo Park (14), New Windsor (8), and Warwick (7), but there were also a number of other municipalities represented (both within the County and outside the County), including New York, Middletown, Sloatsburg, Cornwall, Monroe, Ashburn, and Highland Falls, for a total of 46 individual municipalities. This survey was open from August – October 2019.

Of these responses, the majority (63%) reported that Orange County’s transportation system works “OK” for them, while 34% said it works “bad” and 3% said it works “great”. More than half (58%) of respondents reported that they are concerned about NY 17, as shown in Figure 1. I-84 and U.S. 9W also received a significant number of votes. Other corridors that respondents are concerned about include Route 300 (7 votes), Route 208 (2 votes), NY 17A (3 votes), Route 32 (2 votes), and Route 52 (2 votes). One respondent noted that in general, county roads are “in a lot better shape” than the town roads.

Which of Orange County's highway corridors are you most concerned about?

Included is a summary of the reasons that respondents indicated that they have concern for one or more of these corridors:

ƒ NY 17

» Volume of traffic.

» Lego land contraction and the construction on these highways interfere with the bus schedule.

» LEGOLAND is going to draw more traffic to an already congested area. We have a great tourism area but if we don’t fix our roads nobody will want to return. Nobody wants to sit in traffic all day. That’s why they leave urban areas.

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» Rapid expansion of NY 17 based on Rt17 and Orange Turnpike. Also, traffic at population increase and popular tourist Woodbury Common is unbearable and attractions along the corridor including I'm concerned with what will happen the proposed LEGOLAND. when the new addition will open. I know DOT is trying new rerouting of traffic at » LEGOLAND, Woodbury Common are the the intersection between RT 17, I87 and RT main concerns. For 20+ years, I have been 6, but it has been chaotic for months and commuting to NJ to work and the traffic months. around the commons is horrendous. LEGOLAND is just going to add to it. » Route 17 can already not handle the traffic, and there are several big develop- » Aging infrastructure in the context of ment projects along the corridor. Route rapid gentrification, and increased car 9W northward from Newburgh into Ulster and truck traffic. County is a disaster. It needs to be 4 » Construction slowdowns and lack of well lanes. The Route 17K/Route 300 intersec- done road repairs. tion is a constant traffic jam.

» Excessive traffic on St Rte 17. Numerous ƒ I-84 accidents on US Rte 6 in Woodbury area. » Not enough lanes to handle the volume » Increasing car volume now, when LEGO of traffic. Too many accidents on right land opens, there will be a huge issue on 17!!! lanes prior to exits. Needs 3 lanes from Exit 5 (East) to Newburgh Beacon Bridge. » Poor repair of 17. Woodbury mess. Week- end mess heading to and from Sullivan » Traffic is increasing exponentially. These County. roads all back up during peak times and are all heavily traveled. There is limited » I think we will see more development of ability to expand Route 9W and I 84. It the 300/17 intersection. It is important that seems that the road construction proj- transportation is done right. Also Stewart ects are outdated by the time they are is disconnected from the rest of the area. finished. There should be grander entrances and signs into the airport. » Both highways are hot messes with traffic and need for repairs. » Rt. 17 needs a third lane. Woodbury Com- mon has always been a problem (yes, I » Snow plowing on Rt 84 is not nearly as know about the new construction). I'm good as it used to be when the Thruway concerned about the LEGOLAND traffic. Authority was in charge.

» I take it from the 17-A intersection to I-287. » I 84 construction at exit 10 creates dan- The road sucks. It is in atrocious condi- gerous driving conditions. tion, but so is 17-A from Greenwood Lake » Newburgh Beacon Bridge, west bound... to Tuxedo. The new "patch jobs" on the cannot afford resurfacing but East bound edges of the road aren't the answer. looks great. Its not a City of Newburgh » I live fairly near to Rt 17 in Tuxedo. I've seen stigma right? The I-84 West side of River many accidents at the intersection of construction...exactly who is milking this

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project? I am aware concrete needs time » Winters we can be cut off from rest of to cure...but come now. county. No maternity unit in our town, closed down. ƒ U.S. 9W » I drive these regularly to get to and from » All of these roads are near their capacity. church and group outings. I will travel 9w is horrible through Newburgh. them even more as my internship will take » Lots of potholes and people drive too fast. me throughout all of Orange County. I would like my car to be able to manage » Also truck access to 9W has been without having to traverse over pot holes achieved by raising the bridge however and never ending construction. trucks cannot make the turn onto 9W without creating dangerous conditions » I think Monroe needs an additional for other drivers. conductor road in addition to Rt 17M and North Main Street. The proposed Larkin » Chestnut and 9W should have turning Drive extension would carry a great deal lanes. of traffic around the edge of the Village, making residential North Main Street » 9w intersection to get on 84/NNB bridge considerably safer. It would also provide its a mess there and dangerous. a corridor that would allow the remaining » 9w is continually congested and does open portions of the Town of Monroe near have large trucks often going through the the highway be developed with com- town via this road. mercial or industrial entities, providing a support to the tax base. Finally, this would » We live off 9w and Fear being rear ended provide a venue for residents of Palm Tree everytime we turn onto our street due to to more easily and safely access that part tight space and traffic speed. Congestion of the new Town from exit 130 on RT 17 via is very bad daily during commuter hours the Forest Avenue overpass. and trying to cross without a light is diffi- cult. Too dangerous to allow kids to cross » The lanes are extremely narrow through and no pedestrian friendly options. Sloatsburg and Tuxedo. Traffic speeds are increasing. The poor pavement surface ƒ Other comments left after construction in Sloatsburg. Lack » I want Newburgh to grow and be respon- of physical separation between oncoming sible to its citizens. If we have a viable traffic. High chance for serious accidents. transportation system, Newburgh will » I'm concerned about maintenance on all live up to its potential. Also, reducing of them. The state of the roads isn't great. traffic will help us maintain the beauty of I'm concerned for my parents about 17 Upstate NY. It is important that we con- with the added traffic that will come with nect with other counties, and AMTRAK. the LEGO park combined with the con- » The infrastructure can't handle the struction and casino. increased amount of traffic. There are The table below presents the ideas submitted by more people using the roads, but they're the general public on possible future transit not being kept up.

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corridors. The most commonly requested transit corridors include Newburgh to Middletown (10), Newburgh to Beacon (9), and Newburgh to Goshen (7). Other respondents suggested increasing transit service to and from Port Jervis, Tuxedo, and Middletown, as well as a variety of new connections to New York City destinations. Note that this table only includes submissions that included both an origin and destination.

Ideas Submitted as Possible Future Transit Corridors in Orange County

Corridor Count

Newburgh Connections

Newburgh to Goshen 7

Newburgh to Middletown 10

Newburgh to Beacon 9

Newburgh to Montgomery 3

Newburgh to Stewart Airport 6

Newburgh to nearby state parks (e.g., Harriman)

Newburgh to New Paltz 2

Newburgh to Port Jervis 2

Newburgh to West Point

Newburgh to Woodbury Common 3

Newburgh to Cornwall 2

Newburgh to Tuxedo

Newburgh to Salisbury Mills Train Station 2

Newburgh/New Windsor to Albany

Newburgh to northern Rockland (old West Shore Rail Line restoration)

Port Jervis Connections

Port Jervis to Monticello

Port Jervis to Stewart Airport

Port Jervis to Newark Airport

Port Jervis to SUNY Orange

Port Jervis to Orange Regional Hospital

Port Jervis to Goshen

APPENDIX: PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT | 207 ORANGE COUNTY LRTP 2045

Corridor Count

Port Jervis to the Galleria Mall

Tuxedo Connections

Tuxedo to Warwick 2

Tuxedo to Monroe

Tuxedo to Goshen 3

Tuxedo to Woodbury Common 2

Tuxedo to Sterling Forest Visitor Center

Tuxedo to a DMV in Orange County

Tuxedo Town Center to Appalachian Trail at Elk Pen in Harriman

Middletown Connections

Middletown to Goshen

Middletown to Port Jervis 2

Middletown to Tuxedo 3

Middletown to Dutchess City

Middletown to Monroe 2

Middletown to Warwick

Middletown to Ulster City

Middletown to Westchester

Middletown to Rockland City

Middletown to Montgomery

New York City Connections

Cornwall to NYC 2

Goshen to NYC

Newburgh to NYC 4

Tuxedo to NYC 2

Middletown to NYC

Warwick to NYC

Port Jervis to NYC 2

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Corridor Count

Monroe to NYC

Chester to NYC

Other Connections

Cornwall to Vails Gate

Cornwall to NYC airports

Cornwall to Salisbury Mills Train Station

Tuxedo out to the hiking trails in Harriman and Sterling Forest

Montgomery to OCCC

Monroe to Walden

Port Authority Bus Terminal to a safe stop at entrance to Harriman State Park

From Kiryas Joel / Town of Palm Tree to shopping centers for the thousands who don't drive

Harriman Train Station to Woodbury Common

Goshen to Monroe/Harriman

Warwick to Goshen

Trolley reconnecting Newburgh to its waterfront

Old Erie Rail corridor from Monroe to Port Jervis but through the villages of Chester and Goshen as well.

Rural transportation. Wawayanda to Middletown and Port Jervis

From Meadow Winds to New Windsor

Scotts Corner to 17k and 300

Water St. to William St.

South end of Liberty St. To north end of Liberty St.

Robinson Ave to West Point

New Windsor to Water St.

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The table below presents the ideas submitted by the general public on possible future bike/ped corridors. There was a much greater variety of corridors suggested by survey respondents compared to transit corri- dors. The most common suggestion was anywhere within the City of Newburgh (10), in addition to a number of Newburgh-specific connections. Other possible connections included destinations in Tuxedo, Cornwall, Port Jervis, Monroe, Meadow Winds, Warwick, and other points of interest. Note that this table only includes submissions that included both an origin and destination.

Corridor Count

Newburgh Connections

Broadway 3

Newburgh parks 3

Anywhere in the City of Newburgh 10

Bike Lanes from Newburgh to Beacon

Bike trail on/with 17k linking small villages with Newburgh - Middle- town

Downtown Newburgh to Anywhere in New Windsor

Downtown Newburgh to Beacon 2

Downtown Newburgh to Orange Lake

Downtown Newburgh to North Plank Road

Downtown Newburgh to the big box stores at 87/84

Downtown Newburgh to the Newburgh/Beacon bridge pedestrian path (plenty of dangerous intersections for pedestrians and cyclists)

Downtown Newburgh to Route 300 along 17K.

Downtown Newburgh to Storm King 2

Downtown Newburgh to Target

Newburgh to Crystal Run and those shopping centers

Newburgh to Marlboro 2

Newburgh to New Windsor 2

Newburgh to Newburgh Mall

Newburgh to Port Jervis

Newburgh to Stewart State Park

City of Newburgh to Town of Newburgh 2

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Corridor Count

Tuxedo Connections

Tuxedo 2

Tuxedo Park and Ride to Downtown Tuxedo

Tuxedo to Monroe/Harriman connecting to the Heritage Trail

Tuxedo to Sloatsburgh

Tuxedo to Sterling Forest Visiting Center

Tuxedo to the various trails in town

Tuxedo to Woodbury

Northern Tuxedo to Tuxedo Train Station

Tuxedo to Duck Cedar Plaza (Dottie Audrey's,e etc.)

Tuxedo to Steve's restaurant (no sidewalks, only Route 17 )

Tuxedo Town Center to Sterling Forest and Harriman State Parks

From bus and train stops in Tuxedo out to the hiking trails in Harri- man and Sterling Forest

Cornwall Connections

Cornwall 3

Cornwall to Beacon

Cornwall to Newburgh 2

Cornwall to Port Jervis

Cornwall to West Point

Cornwall to Storm King Arts Center

Port Jervis Connections

Port Jervis

Port Jervis to Shoprite

Port Jervis train station to the rest of the town- They don't shovel in the winter

Monroe Connections

Monroe

Monroe Crystal Run

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Corridor Count

Monroe park & ride

Monroe Stage Road

Monroe to Chester

Meadow Winds Connections

Meadow Winds to stop & shop mall

Meadow Winds to the Newburgh mall

Meadow Winds to Walmart

Middletown Connections

Middletown

Middletown to Goshen

Middletown to Otisville

Middletown to Chester

Middletown to Port Jervis

Middletown to Town of Wallkill Ballard rd, 211, galleria

Warwick Connections

Warwick 2

Warwick to Monroe

Warwick to Tuxedo

Points of Interest

Around the malls

Stewart Airport

Woodbury Common 2

Orange County Fairgrounds

Storm King Art Center 2

Galleria Mall in Middletown

Walmart 2

Stop & Shop 3

Stewart State Forest

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Corridor Count

A bike trail system connecting the wineries ( for tourism)

A priority should be to initially add more near shopping areas, in those places you always see people walking in the streets, and there are no shoulders or bike lanes.

Other Connections

Anywhere and everywhere! 4

Every local road should have a pedestrian / bike lane.

Route 17 3

Adding more access points/entrances to the old rail road track / bike path in Monroe/Harriman would help make the entire area more accessible. There isn't enough entrances to the bike path. The distances from each entrance is very far and make the bike path unpractical to use daily.

17K WESTBOUND

17K, Newburgh

9w by Balmville to Marlboro

All pedestrian crossings across Route 17.

Along route 300 from Route 207 to Route 52

Biking trail from Suffern to connect to the bike trail in Monroe

Chester to goshen

Florida

From Fullerton to Gidney Avenue

From Gidney Avenue to Robinson Avenue

From Maybrook to Walden

From Montgomery Street to Gidney Avenue

From Washingtonville to Round Hill School

From West Street to Fullerton

Goshen to port Jervis

Greenwood Lake to Harriman State Park

Greyhound Bus Sta. to W. Point

Hannaford in Vails Gate

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Corridor Count

Maybrook to Walden

Mill pond

Montgomery to Galleria

Montgomery to Winding Hills Park

North Newburgh south to New Windsor

New Windsor

Route 300 Newburgh Mall and surrounded area

Rte 32 to 84

The dark Newburgh ferry parking lot to Washington Street

To Route 32 and North Plank Rd

To Route 52 to City Newburgh Line

William ST (Bapt Tmpl) to Water St.

RESPONSES TO CALL FOR IDEAS OCTC solicited input from transportation professionals as part of a “Call for Ideas,” which was intended to solicit input on significant, long-term transportation projects or concepts in Orange County. In total, 11 ideas were submitted, the majority of which were specific transportation projects. The ideas spanned across all modes and included ideas such as multimodal transportation centers, hi-speed ferry service, expanded “dial-a-bus” programs, rail trails, and further development of Stewart Airport. The table below summarizes the submitted ideas.

Call for Ideas Submissions

Project Name Location Description Other Information

Multi-modal Near current bus This is a large county. As such, the develop- Similar center being devel- transportation terminal ment of a few multi-modal transportation oped in City of Middletown. centers centers would be helpful in assisting the movement of residents to jobs, education shopping and medical appointments.

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Project Name Location Description Other Information

Hi-Speed Ferry City of Newburgh Enter into a P3 to leverage private sector This would be a new public Service waterfront to resources and operating expertise to transportation service to Manhattan introduce hi-speed ferry service with a complement existing transit major port located in the City of Newburgh. assets and to utilize a natural This can utilize a natural resource to create resource. Approx. 6 month public transportation with nominal environ- construction period, $100M. mental impact. This should be viewed as a Private sector funding + BUILD catalyst for economic development in the Grants. City of Newburgh.

City of Newburgh Newburgh Wa- The MTA and NYSDOT currently operate, Reconstruction of dock is Transportation terfront/Marine fund and subsidize and underutilized ferry included within the LWRP. Hub Drive (NYSDOT service on the Hudson River between the Would affect Newburgh 980T). From City of Newburgh and Beacon. This ferry Beacon Ferry, Shortline bus, Marine Drive & service is underutilized for a number of rea- Newburgh Area Bus Service, Fourth Street to sons including seasonal operation, limited Stewart Shuttle, State and Marine Drive & hours of operation, lack of advertisement Local road networks, exiting Third Street and knowledge of the service. The City freight rail, possibly future of Newburgh is currently undertaking the commuter rail. Approx. 36 design process for a project reconstruct and months construction period, expand an existing failed dock to accom- $30M+. modate the existing ferry service at this new location once constructed. Once the new dock is constructed, the use of the relocated ferry service could be greatly enhanced by a proposed project to construct a trans- portation hub at the Newburgh Waterfront along Marine Drive. Such a transportation hub would include a ferry station, parking garage, bus station and potentially a rail connection for future connection to Stewart Airport.

Town of Palm N/A The "Dial-A-Bus" Program is a concept If successful, a program of Tree "Dial-A-Bus" whereby an adapted bus capable of this type could be replicated Program transporting individuals with special needs in multiple jurisdictions and/or is available to assist residents with trips to County-wide. medical appointments, pharmacies, shop- ping centers, educational institutions, and other community based activities on an as needed basis. This service would individu- ally focused, by picking clients up at their door, assisting them on and off the bus, and returning them directly to their residence.

APPENDIX: PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT | 215 ORANGE COUNTY LRTP 2045

Project Name Location Description Other Information

Village of Kiryas Town of Palm The Village has a very high need to address Very long term goals. Would Joel Roadway Tree / Village of multiple challenges with current road- need to be strategized in Improvements Kiryas Joel (Could way infrastructure. As a mostly pedestri- multiple phases. Possible be replicable in an-based populous, the most desirable simultaneous underground other communi- projects are very pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure improvements/ ties) focused ideals. Over the next several years replacement such as water (and beyond), the Village would like to and sewer lines and/or com- see infrastructure modifications such as munications infrastructure road-widening, crosswalk and crossing (i.e., fiber optic cable) signal improvements, strategically located roundabouts, pedestrian bridges, sidewalk additions and improvements, LED street lighting, inclusion of "green" infrastructure such as electric vehicle accommodations and stormwater absorption amenities to assist with drainage problems, etc

Public Specific need in The Village of Kiryas Joel would like to see Possible funding assistance Transportation Village of Kiryas growth in public transportation availabil- may be available through Expansion Joel, however ity. This includes updated fleet vehicles, NYSDOT, MPOs, NYSERDA, there is benefit to increased frequency in drop off/pick times, Local Transportation Com- greater region. more stops within the Village/Town limits, mittees, etc. and better connectivity to economic, medical, and recreational destinations. This concept also ties in with the "Dial-A-Bus" proposition. A "Park & Ride" facility is anoth- er desirable project we'd like to explore.

Orange County Countywide Prepare for a coming surge in: (1) Auton- N/A Plan to Absorb omous vehicles, especially heavy trucks Autonomous on major arteries; (2) Electric vehicles and Vehicles—OCPAAV charging stations throughout the county; (3) Shared vehicles, possibly replacing many of today's private vehicles

Develop Stewart Newburgh region 1. Make Stewart Airport accessible by Public 100+ month construction Airport Transportation links for residents, nearby period. Consult specialized individuals, tourists wanting access to OC transportation / distribution attractions, international transfers. consultants, truck/ air/ rail carriers, "future" transporters 2. Build a separate terminal(s) for Autono- mous Vehicle freight handling and distri- bution. (Limit to use of today's technology aircraft / ground vehicles to reduce the stress on transportation networks and the environment - Keep OC Clean)

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Project Name Location Description Other Information

Newburgh— N/A There is an existing rail corridor between the N/A Chester Rail Trail Newburgh waterfront linking to the current Heritage Trail in Chester. This corridor showcases some of the bucolic beauty of the county and would provide a practical means of non-motorized transportation. This trail passes within several hundred yards of the Metro North station in Salis- bury Mills and could provide an amazing tourist link to take the train in and then bike through the county. This link would also connect the Cornwall and Washingtonville high schools providing a safe way for stu- dents to travel to school on foot or bike. Rail trails have proven to bring in tourism dollars and provide extraordinary payback value compared to investment cost.

Shuttle Bus Loops Newburgh/ Town Like what Dutchess County has accom- N/A of Newburgh/ plished in Beacon and Poughkeepsie, a Beacon and Mid- continuous multi-bus loop between the dletown/ Wallkill train station in Beacon, downtown New- burgh, town of Newburgh shopping and the airport should be started immediately. Also between Middletown and Wallkill and between the two main campuses of SUNY Orange. The return on investment in terms of job retention, attracting (and retaining) more residents (and investors), tourism and commerce will more than pay for this effort on the back end from increasing business, better housing and better job opportuni- ties- as well as attracting private and public investments.

Road Expansion N/A Adding Travel Lanes on 17 M between Mid- N/A dletown and Goshen

APPENDIX: PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT | 217 ORANGE COUNTY LRTP 2045

LRTP PUBLIC COMMENTS OCTC made the draft 2045 LRTP available for public comment during a 30-day period beginning October 18, 2019, including an advertised final public hearing on November 6, 2019. These documents were advertised in public facilities, in English and Spanish language, available for download from the OCTC website, and available as hardcopy documents from the OCTC office. In total, OCTC received two public comments on the document. The below table summarizes the submitted comments as well as OCTC responses. LRTP Public Comments

Name: Date:

Newburgh Resident 10/29/2019

Comment:

When comparing the two, I really think that the train line on the western side of the river pales in comparison to the eastern. I used to commute from Campbell Hall on a regular basis, and that train line is unreliable, consistently broke down, and took so long. I would never chose Orange County for commuting ever again. Now I take the time to drive over the bridge to beacon to catch the metro north every day, instead of living in an area like Cornwall that has its own train station on this side.

For commuting purposes, is it possible to add additional “express” trains to the schedule? For example, the Hudson Line has multiple different routes all between NYC and Poughkeepsie. There is the train that makes all the stops up to Croton. There is the train that shoots to Croton, and then makes all stops to Poughkeepsie. THEN there is the train that shoots to Beacon, and only makes Beacon-New Hamburg-Poughkeepsie. This train is a lifesaver for people who live so far up here. And it puts our commute time on par with people who live in far boroughs, but gives us the benefit of the Hudson Valley.

It is no question why towns on the eastern side of the river are growing faster than Orange County, it is because it is more easily accessible to people from the city. If we want to bring more money towards the businesses in the region, we need to make Orange County easily accessible as well! I know there have been talks about having a weekend ferry service between Beacon/Newburgh; but these services have been poorly advertised and even canceled. They barely reached my knowledge, and I am an active millennial on multiple social media outlets. I’m not sure how it is expected to be known to those who are less involved.

The hiking trails between Beacon and cold spring and breakneck also aid to human traffic and business in the area. How do we make the hiking by us more accessible to those without a car? Can we extend the rail trail further to help connect highland with the south?

What about utilizing the freight tracks? Are there gaps in the schedule that could allow for a special “scenic” train ride on certain times of the year? Autumn up here is absolutely beautiful! Is there a way to connect the Woodbury Com- mons with some small towns around it? How can we divert that traffic into spending time here OUTSIDE the commons and not just shopping.

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Comment (continued):

I think we need to be focusing more on public transit and mass transit, but do it in a way that is smart. If we can increase the amount of people using public transit to come to our communities, we can then decrease the amount of people driving up individually, which will then decrease the amount of pollution going into our environment. But we cannot just add mass transit for the sake of it. I would suggest hiring someone to dig into the raw data of the area. What are the peak times for trains? What are the peak seasons for trains? What is the current schedule and where do we see holes? Do we see trains at times that aren’t being used?

And I don’t even want to get into it, but is there a solid plan in place to help mitigate bottlenecking in the area where LEGOLAND is being built? If you have ever driven to an amusement park or down the shore on a busy weekend, you know what you will hit. I can tell you firsthand, route 17 is not equipped right now to be able to handle that much traffic. It never has been. So please focus on that as well.

Response:

Thank you for your comment and participation in the transportation planning process for Orange County.

Regarding your comments on rail service along the Port Jervis Line, this particular service carries a number of challeng- es not present along east-of-the-Hudson rail lines. First, the Port Jervis Line, is operated by New Jersey Transit, which sub- jects it, in part, to capacity constraints and issues that exist throughout the Main and Bergen County lines within New Jersey itself. Second, the Port Jervis Line only consists of one track (as opposed to two or more) which significantly slows down service. Metro-North Railroad is exploring the feasibility of constructing a new train yard and restoring small segments of a second track to allow more opportunities for trains to pass each other along the Port Jervis Line. While no time frame has been set for these projects, these projects would increase capacity and reliability along the west-of- Hudson rail line. While still in the exploratory stages, additional projects for increased ferry services, including weekend service, are also being looked at.

Regarding access to trails, and tourism in general, the Orange County Department of Planning (OCDP) is currently con- ducting a study looking at transportation options and strategies to serve key economic generators, including tourism related to Orange County’s natural assets. Key strategies to make hiking more accessible include additional position- ing future trails in transit-friendly areas. Related to this, the Heritage Trail will soon extend into Middletown, which will provide a key accessible link.

Woodbury Common is currently accessible to nearby towns via Coach USA bus service and Transit Orange. A key challenge is marketing these services and getting the word out about their availability. There are plans for the OCDP to look at ways to improve the marketing of the county-wide public transit system. One strategy that will help is increased coordination amongst the different transit operators.

We are in agreement that the utilizing freight tracks for scenic rides would be a great way to increase tourism. However, such decisions are made by the freight railroads themselves, so there is little ability on the part of Orange County to persuade the freight railroad operators.

Regarding Route 17 and traffic congestion resulting from LEGOLAND, Exit 125 on Route 17 is being completely recon- structed. Capacity increases are also planned for Route 17M, along with local intersection improvements. These projects are being done to improve access to and from LEGOLAND and to mitigate bottlenecks as a result.

APPENDIX: PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT | 219 ORANGE COUNTY LRTP 2045

Name: Date:

Tuxedo Town Board 11/18/2019

Comment:

On behalf of the Tuxedo Town Board, I am writing with concerns and a wish list for the Orange County Long-Range Transportation Plan. These comments can be categorized as “ Impact of current transportation modes on Tuxedo’s downtown economic development and job creation “ and“Future transportation plans that would benefit Tuxedo’s economic development, road safety and downtown revitalization”.

Current conditions: Downtown Tuxedo is located in a narrow valley with ability for growth that is severely limited by the encroachment of the NYS Thruway, Route 17, Metro North railway and the Ramapo River. The greatest obstacle for downtown revitaliza- tion is our 4-lane Route 17 “Main Street” with large truck and commuter traffic that speeds through our small business district. Further north in the Southfields hamlet, commuter traffic from towns north and west of Tuxedo cause hazard- ous traffic conditions at the junction of Old Orange Turnpike and Route 17 which is the site of numerous accidents.

Downtown Tuxedo suffers from conditions that are hazardous for pedestrians and children walking to school.

Local businesses are concerned about limited public transportation for their employees.

“Wish list” for downtown business development and pedestrian safety: ƒ Restrictions on large truck traffic on Route 17. This might be accomplished by eliminating tolls at Exit 16. Trucks avoid these tolls by traveling on Route 17. ƒ Reduction in speed limit on Route 17 to 35 mph from southern border to north of Orange Turnpike junction. ƒ Maintain the bridge next to the Nepera site to prevent even larger trucks from using Route 17 to avoid Exit 16 tolls. ƒ Funding for Complete Streets plans and pedestrian safety for children walking to school. ƒ Exploration of an Exit 15B should be pursued.

“Wish list” to improve commutability and tourism: ƒ Orange County participation in plans for the Gateway tunnel to Penn Station NY ƒ Additional rail line connection to Stewart airport ƒ Additional train and bus service.

“Wish list” to improve recreation and tourism opportunities: ƒ River Trail along the Ramapo River ƒ Bike paths ƒ Public transportation to connect downtown bus and train station with the Sterling Forest Visitor Center and trail- heads in Harriman State Park

Addendum to Tuxedo Town Board Comments on Orange County Long Range Transportation Plan

Road Safety: ƒ Route 17 is the alternative route to the NYS Thruway. Protection is needed from natural disasters such as flooding on Route 17 and the Metro-North railroad. ƒ Restrictions on transportation of hazardous materials on Metro North railroad

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Comment (continued):

Commutability: ƒ Orange County Transportation Council needs to work with Rockland County and NYS DOT on the impacts of new development in the Town of Ramapo. A new 300 apartment complex on Route 17 and the new Jehovah Witness film studio and residences for 1000 will greatly impact commuter traffic on County Roads (Long Meadow Road and Sterling Mine Road) as well as the Route 17 access to the NYS Thruway. ƒ Tuxedo Farms in Tuxedo is planned to add 1195 homes that will add even more substantial traffic to Route 17. ƒ An additional exit to the NYS Thruway needs to be explored.

Recreation and Transportation Alternatives: ƒ Bike paths that connect to the Orange County Heritage Trail

Response:

Thank you for your participation in the Orange County transportation planning process. We are in agreement that even though Tuxedo is the closest of Orange County’s municipalities to New York City, it faces a number of unique chal- lenges given its location and geography.

Regarding Tuxedo’s wish lists, the Orange County Department of Planning (OCDP) continues to evaluate potential projects for implementation, including related to trucks, tourism, active transportation, and general accessibility, while working with local and state jurisdictions. The OCDP does recommend and would support Tuxedo implementing a complete streets policy which would include general traffic calming strategies. Regarding additional train service, such decisions would be made by Metro-North Railroad in conjunction with New Jersey Transit, while taking into account funding and capacity constraints.

Regarding commutability and impacts from new development, each developer is required to perform an environmen- tal impact analysis. As part of this process, the developer will identify mitigations, including those related to traffic. As a result of that outcome, additional improvements may be funded, at least in part, by the developer.

The OCDP will continue to work with Tuxedo and other county municipalities to address concerns and transportation ideas.

APPENDIX: PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT | 221