Village of Ossining Initiates Pilot Project to Improve Downtown Traffic and Pedestrian Circulation
Ossining, NY (PRWEB) July 14, 2014 -- On Monday, August 4, the Village of Ossining will initiate a pilot project converting Spring Street between Main Street and St. Paul’s Place from a one-way to a two-way street. The project seeks to improve traffic and pedestrian circulation in furtherance of the economic vitality of businesses on Spring Street and the entire downtown area.
The pilot project will provide an opportunity for Village officials, residents and business owners to experience the traffic circulation change to the downtown area prior to any permanent changes being made. The Village engaged the traffic consulting firm of Nelson and Nygaard to assist in the technical aspects of the project.
“The opening up of Spring Street as an economic incentive to the downtown area has been discussed for many years and was included in the Village’s recently approved Comprehensive Development Plan,” stated Ossining Village Manager Richard A. Leins.
As part of the change, the Village will be restriping portions of the road to provide for the new traffic pattern, as well as providing for additional user-friendly pedestrian access. The pilot project will utilize regular traffic striping to mark the area of the eventual curb extensions as well as pedestrian refuge islands. Flexible bollards, and the use of temporary planters, stones, and fencing may also be incorporated to delineate the new circulation.
"The Trustees and I are very excited about this important modification to traffic in our Downtown Business District. We've heard from numerous business proprietors on Spring Street, who are eagerly looking forward to easier access for their customers and many delighted pedestrians, whose safety will be enhanced. I encourage more businesses and residents to give us feedback, as well," commented Ossining Mayor William R. Hanauer.
If the pilot project is deemed successful, the Village anticipates construction of the permanent improvements in the Spring of 2015. In addition to the traffic upgrades, the capital construction would also include the utilization of raised sidewalks and medians complete with planters as well as a new crosswalk aligning the north sidewalk of Main Street for easier pedestrian access.
“The conversion of Spring Street from one-way to two-way is a significant project to be completed under our economic development strategic objectives. Improved traffic circulation in the downtown area will further the success of the downtown business community,” commented Ingrid Richards, the Village’s Manager of Downtown and Economic Development.
For more information, contact the Office of Downtown and Economic Development at 914-941-3554, irichards(at)villageofossining(dot)org, or visit the Office of Downtown and Economic Development online at http://www.villageofossining.org/economicdevelopment.
About the Village of Ossining
On April 2, 1813, the Village of Ossining became the first incorporated village in Westchester County to be state-chartered. Today, Ossining is a culturally diverse, affordable place to live, rich in both history and natural beauty. Approximately 25,600 people reside in the three and one half square miles of this historic Village on the Hudson River, which boasts extensive shopping, recreational programs, educational enrichment opportunities, and excellent municipal services. Ossining’s role in New York’s heritage has been recognized by its inclusion, as one of only 14 areas, in an Urban Cultural Park System designed to attract visitors to the State. Visit http://www.villageofossining.org for more information.
Kelly Lee, Co-Communications, Inc., +1 914.666.0066, [email protected]
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