RTE. 17 IMPROVEMENTS The NY State Dept. of Transportation is proposing to upgrade the busy roadway from Harriman in Orange County to Exit 103 in Monticello, above. The plan includes widening the road to three lanes in each direction from Exit 131 to Exit 113 in Wurtsboro. Manor Ink photo
Mountainkeeper urges ‘innovative’ plan
Wider road called no ‘solution’
By Aidan Dusenbury-Dalto | Manor Ink
Livingston Manor, NY – The Quickway, Rte. 17, can be a boring topic – that is, unless you’re fighting for it not to expand.
A critical transportation debate is unfolding. The proposed $1.4 billion Rte. 17 highway expansion project has sparked intense discussion about the future of regional mobility, with environmental advocates like Taylor Jaffe, Catskill Mountainkeeper’s program manager and environmental justice associate, leading the organization’s charge for a more sustainable approach. In a Zoom presentation to scores of concerned residents on Wednesday, Apr. 2, Jaffe outlined the Mountainkeeper’s position on the proposed changes to Rte. 17.
“It’s about reimagining how we connect communities, support local economies and create a more inclusive transportation system.”
The current proposal seems straightforward at first glance: widen a 30-mile stretch of highway between Harriman and Wurtsboro, in order to alleviate traffic concerns. However, the numbers tell a different story. According to the New York State Dept. of Transportation’s own studies, Rte. 17 experiences congestion only 3.8 percent of the time. Even more striking, the proposed massive expansion would save drivers a mere three minutes and six seconds during peak traffic periods.
“It’s a shame that we have this wonderful place to live, but a lot of folks can’t access it unless they have a car,” said Jaffe, highlighting the real transportation challenges facing the region. The solution, she argues, isn’t more highway lanes, but a comprehensive approach to regional mobility.
Alternative transportation solutions offer a more promising path forward. According to Jaffe, the success of Ulster County’s trail network demonstrates the economic potential of innovative transportation infrastructure. By investing in public transit, trail connections and regional transportation strategies, the Catskills could transform how residents and visitors move through the region.
Mountainkeeper believes that the proposed $1.4 billion expenditure could be a transformative investment, but only if used creatively. Instead of expanding a highway that’s rarely congested, the funds could revolutionize regional transportation, making the Catskills more accessible, sustainable and economically vibrant.
“This isn’t just about a road,” said Jaffe. “It’s about reimagining how we connect communities, support local economies and create a more inclusive transportation system.” The Rethink Route 17 campaign spearheaded by Mountainkeeper offers a vision of mobility that works for everyone, not just those with a car. As the debate continues, one thing becomes clear: the future of transportation in the Catskills depends on innovative thinking, community engagement and a commitment to sustainable development.
The next step is for the Dept. of Transportation to formally publish its plans with a required environmental study. The public will have the opportunity to weigh in. In the meantime, Jaffe urges those who have concerns to contact their elected representatives.