Neighbors in North Rockland area voice frustrations over county construction project

Community members there say they’ve dealt with issues since it started, like utilities being shut off, dust from the site and challenges leaving their properties.

Diane Caruso

Aug 21, 2024, 9:45 PM

Updated 21 days ago

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Rockland County has been doing work on Suffern Lane and Hammond Road in Thiells since June for a project aimed to improve traffic flow.
Community members there say they’ve dealt with issues since it started, like utilities being shut off, dust from the site and challenges leaving their properties.
They say they also worry vibrations may lead to structural issues with their homes.
They showed News 12 videos and photos they’ve taken of the roadwork.
"No consideration, no compassion. No notification,” said Joyce Wilamo whose street is directly impacted. " I'm getting run around. If anything changes, it's because I complain. But all of these issues should've been addressed prior to breaking ground."
Wilamo has this message for leaders: "you need to provide us with answers, with resolutions. And you need to be more considerate with us." `
A Rockland county spokeswoman released the following statement:
“We respect and sympathize with the concerns being raised by neighbors which our Highway Department has and continues to meet with to formulate solutions. This project is necessary to alleviate congestion on that roadway, which will improve traffic safety and air quality for residents, and is widely supported by the local community. We plead for patience as this short-term inconvenience will have a long-term benefit to all in that area.”
News 12 is told construction is expected to be complete by this fall and stripes will be painted on the road when school ends.