Council orders completion of downtown speed table as a test; debate over placement and timing

The Newburgh Town Council voted July 23 to install the remaining elements of a speed table downtown so the device can be evaluated as a test section. Council members debated whether the device should be moved, duplicated to the west, or left in place for comparative data before additional work.

Town Manager Chris Cook and several councilmembers described safety concerns reported since the pilot installation, including at least two incidents of vehicles striking the banner posts and a separate incident in which a driver accelerated immediately after crossing the table. Some councilmembers said the device had reduced speeds for some drivers but also created noise and hazardous behavior by others.

Supporters of completing the test emphasized that the speed table was only a pilot and that additional measures (a second hump to the west, curb bump-outs and crosswalk calming features) were planned to work in combination. Opponents said they are strongly opposed to the location and urged removal or relocation. The council voted to complete the remainder of the speed table where it stands and to treat it as a test section; the motion carried. Council directed the town manager to schedule installation at a time when work crews are available (the meeting record indicates installation will not occur the coming Sunday because of staffing) and to publicize the work with detours and social-media announcements.

Council members said staff will track public comments and collision or near-miss reports while the device is in place and return with data to assess whether to move, add, or remove devices.