As Gossips reported last week, controversy is brewing in Stuyvesant over the proposal to replace the historic Stuyvesant Falls Bridge.
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| Photo: Trixie's List |
On Thursday, August 8, there was a public information meeting, conducted by the Columbia County Department of Public Works, about the plans to replace the historic bridge with something opponents have described as "an ugly piece of concrete." An account of that meeting appeared in the Register-Star on August 10: "Stuyvesant residents speak out over Kinderhook Creek bridge replacement." Another account of the meeting appears on the website HistoricStuyvesant.org. That account is quoted here:On August 8th, 2024, the Columba County Department of Public Works presented a poorly conceived plan to replace the historic single-lane bridge with a large two-lane design that does not suit the context or the needs of our community. There are critical problems with both the design scheme and project work plan that need to be addressed.
The proposed replacement is guaranteed to increase vehicle speeds on Route 25A. We want a SAFE plan that provides accessibility for emergency vehicles, while maintaining low vehicle speeds and safe conditions for pedestrians and cyclists. We deserve a plan that protects everyone and fosters the friendly rural charm cherished by Columbia County residents.
The residents of Stuyvesant are broadly calling for a halt in the consulting engineers' work and the implementation of a community-based bridge design process. We need County and State officials to give serious consideration to alternatives, including bridge repair and rehabilitation. The current process should be paused and replaced with an approach that gives the community adequate agency in decision-making about the future of our bridge.
This Saturday, August 17, Stuyvesant residents and advocates for the preservation of the iconic bridge are planning a Save Our Bridge Rally and Walk. The event begins at 10 a.m. Participants are asked to gather at Sandbar Park off Lindenwald Avenue in Stuyvesant Falls.  |
| Image: Google Maps |
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This bridge replacement is long overdue. It is only one lane and has no benefit to the community there. Stottville had an old metal bridge that was replaced years ago. Smartest improvement.
ReplyDeleteKeep the old bridge. The last thing we need is more crap modern concrete.
ReplyDeletegreat looking and historic, a low traffic byway.
ReplyDeletewho needs an ugly replacement ?