SLATER, LOCAL OFFICIALS CALL FOR SAFETY REVIEW OF DEADLY STRETCH OF TACONIC STATE PARKWAY

Following a tragic crash on the Taconic State Parkway that claimed four lives and left another individual critically injured on May 14, Assemblyman Matt Slater (R,C-Yorktown) is calling for immediate action to address ongoing safety concerns along a heavily traveled portion of the roadway.

Slater has sent a formal letter to Gov. Kathy Hochul and New York State Department of Transportation (DOT) Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez urging the state to conduct a comprehensive safety assessment of the Taconic State Parkway, specifically from the Saw Mill River Parkway interchange to Miller Hill Road.

“Tragically, the recent fatal accident in the Town of New Castle stresses the urgent need for improvements,” said Slater. “It is suggested that the absence of guardrails contributed to the severity of the crash. This is not an isolated incident. The frequency and seriousness of accidents on this corridor need to be addressed now.”

Slater is calling on the DOT to analyze crash data from the past decade and assess current infrastructure, including the adequacy of guardrails, signage, rumble strips and visibility. He emphasized the need for a proactive, data-driven response to prevent future tragedies.

“The Taconic State Parkway is a critical artery for commuters and families across the Hudson Valley,” Slater continued. “We have an obligation to ensure it is as safe as possible. I stand ready to work with state agencies and local partners to secure funding and expedite necessary improvements based on the findings of this review.”

“As the town supervisor of Somers, I stand with Assemblyman Slater in demanding immediate action to address the serious and ongoing dangers along this stretch of the Taconic State Parkway. This is not just a local issue—it's a well-documented crisis,” said Somers Town Supervisor Robert Scorrano. “The Taconic has been ranked as the most dangerous roadway in New York state and among the top ten deadliest in the entire country. Our communities have endured too many tragedies, and thoughts and prayers are no longer enough. We need a comprehensive, data-driven safety review that results in real infrastructure improvements—before another life is lost. Inaction is unacceptable. I fully support this call and will keep pressing for the action and resources needed to make this roadway safer.”

Putnam Valley Town Supervisor Jacqueline Annabi said, “Putnam Valley encourages and supports Assemblyman Matt Slater in urging the Department of Transportation to conduct a thorough review of this section of the parkway in analyzing crash data, current safety infrastructure, and potential enhancements including guardrails, signage, rumble strips, and sightline improvements. Finding solutions to protect the lives of those who travel this section of the Taconic every day should be of the highest priority.”

Yorktown Town Supervisor Ed Lachterman said, “There have been some tragic accidents on the Taconic State Parkway as of late. We appreciate the efforts of Assemblyman Slater to have a safety inspection performed on the stretch of road. Anything we can do to help keep our residents safe should be looked at and implemented.”