Letter to the Editor: Why Can't Temporary Traffic Signals Remain in Yorktown?

• Editor's Note: The following letter was written by Art Bartosch. To send your letters to the editor, email plamena@patch.com.

The Taconic bridge project included the installation of temporary traffic signals by the DOT at various locations throughout the Yorktown corridor. These traffic signals were installed to control the flow of detour traffic for the project. The immediate benefit realized from this action was the controlled and safe passage of all vehicles through the various intersections on the detour route. 

The project is now complete and these temporary traffic signals will be removed (as of this writing the 129/Underhill signal is gone). I had made an inquiry to the NYSDOT to ask why these signals cannot remain (with the exception of the Underhill Road/Taconic exit traffic signal). I was informed the request must come from the local municipality. 

I am especially concerned regarding the removal of the route 118/129 signal. Previous control of flow was a flashing red/yellow light. An antiquated method of traffic control with today's volume of traffic. With the installation of the temporary traffic signal traversing that intersection has become much safer. To reverse back to a red/yellow flashing light is unacceptable and puts all who travel that intersection in harms way. 

I have sent a request to Mr. Michael Grace, Yorktown Town Supervisor, asking him to contact Joan McDonald, state Department of Transportation commissioner, and stop the removal of these traffic signals.

This should be the immediate action until a safety review of the impact of this action will have on the motorist who traverse these dangerous intersections.