Fort Edward approves seeking a speed study for North River Road after residents cite safety risks

The Town Board approved Resolution #15 to accept and forward a request for a speed limit reduction on North River Road and authorized the Fort Edward Superintendent of Highways to coordinate with Washington County and the New York State Department of Transportation. The resolution passed unanimously among present members; Councilman Suprenant was absent. The board vote followed public commentary from several residents who said the road’s blind curves, lack of shoulder and frequent pedestrian and bicycle use make the current conditions unsafe.

Resident Kerri Culhane urged an immediate change: "Post it at 25mph then, it’s a matter of safety and if it’s a random number then why not err on the side of safety," she said. Highway staff told residents the formal county/state study is required before an enforceable limit can be set; Brian Brockway estimated the State process could take "1–2 years." Several residents, including Kyle Cozzens of Promote Fort Edward, offered to provide letters of community support tied to the town’s recent Empire State Trail Town designation. The board said it would change advisory yellow signs locally where lawful, but emphasized that only NYSDOT can set an enforceable limit.