Overpass In Putnam Renamed To Honor 1st Responders

PUTNAM VALLEY, NY — The Taconic State Parkway-Pudding Street Overpass was renamed the Putnam Valley First Responders Bridge during a ceremony Friday.

State Sen. Sue Serino and Assemblyman Kevin Byrne introduced legislation earlier this year to rename the overpass in honor of the town first responders.

The overpass was finished in the summer of 2021, eliminating a dangerous, at-grade intersection across the Taconic that motorists, school buses and emergency vehicle used to travel across the town.

Serino said that the first responders in Putnam Valley have gone above and beyond for the community, and it was thanks in large part to their push for change that the long-awaited overpass became a reality.

“To have the opportunity to name this bridge in their honor is a meaningful moment not only for me, but for every resident who worked tirelessly to get this project over the finish line,” she said.

Byrne said the previous intersection at Pudding Street and the parkway created all sorts of dangerous safety hazards for those who had to cross the Taconic.

“Our police, firefighters and emergency medical service providers in Putnam Valley perform vital services that the community depends on,” he said. “It’s fitting to honor them with this dedication.”

Putnam Valley Town Supervisor Jackie Annabi thanked everyone who was responsible for making the overpass a reality.

“What once was a hazardous pass that brought first responders out to accident after accident,” she said, “will now serve as a symbol of safety and appreciation for their service.”