Community Encouraged by Crosswalk Progress on Old Nyack Turnpike, Looks Ahead to Next Phase of Safety Improvements

By Rockland Daily Staff

Community members are expressing appreciation and optimism following the recent installation of a crosswalk on Old Nyack Turnpike, as reported on Rockland Daily, viewing it as a meaningful result of ongoing advocacy and coordination with local officials.

Following the initial news coverage, residents have shared positive feedback, noting that the progress reflects the impact of sustained effort and strong collaboration. Many said it is encouraging to see long-standing safety concerns begin to translate into real improvements on the ground.

Community members specifically expressed appreciation to Town of Ramapo Supervisor Michael Specht, Chief of Staff Mona Montell, and Highway Superintendent Fred Brinn for their responsiveness and partnership throughout the process. Recognition was also extended to Stephen Powers and the Rockland County Highway Department, along with County Legislators Moishe Hopstein and Joel Friedman, State Assemblyman Aron Wieder and his office, and State Senator Bill Weber for helping advance the effort.

At the same time, residents emphasize that the work is not yet complete, noting that the crosswalk remains unfinished without a pedestrian-activated warning system. On a fast-moving road like Old Nyack Turnpike, the absence of signals creates a dangerous gap—where pedestrians may feel protected, but drivers are not always prepared to yield. According to Town officials, such a system is expected, and the community is urging that it be installed promptly to avoid a false sense of security.

Attention is now turning to the intersection of Old Nyack Turnpike and Saddle River Road, where multiple developments are planned. Residents say this presents both a risk and a rare opportunity: without proper infrastructure, traffic and safety concerns could worsen, but with coordinated planning, long-needed improvements can be implemented.

Residents are calling for a comprehensive redesign, including properly engineered turning lanes, roadway widening, additional crosswalks, improved lighting, and balanced traffic flow measures.

Critically, they stress that these upgrades must be implemented before any new construction begins—not after—to avoid the long-term challenges seen in similar situations elsewhere.

While supportive of responsible development, residents emphasize that infrastructure must come first. They also highlighted the ongoing efforts of County Legislator Moishe Hopstein, noting his role in bringing stakeholders together and advancing solutions.

Looking ahead, residents remain hopeful that this progress will continue and serve as a foundation for further safety improvements, especially with increased pedestrian activity expected. The overall sentiment is one of appreciation and encouragement - recognizing the progress made while looking forward to the next steps.