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Board backs DOT plan to convert downtown slip ramp; resident protests engineering proposals
Summary
The Ancram Town Board passed a resolution supporting NYSDOT striping/signing and conversion of a two-way slip to a one-way slip, but a public commenter (Donna) challenged engineering proposals, saying plans unfairly target her property. Board members said the engineering work produced necessary data and that property-taking would require further decisions.
The Ancram Town Board voted to support the New York State Department of Transportation's recommended safety work in the town center: striping and signing and converting the existing two-way slip into a one-way slip. Council members said DOT reviewed proposals from GPI and can begin signing and striping quickly once the town passes a resolution authorizing the move; ramp reconstruction would be tied to a local project or permit.
The measure passed as Resolution No. 11 of 2025. Council members emphasized the board prioritized lower-cost, practical options and that DOT told the town certain structural elements would be added to a future local project. "They are willing to start working on the signing, for the intersection, and they will also begin working to change the 2 way slip into a 1 way slip," a council member said when reporting DOT's response.
The decision came after lengthy public comment. Donna, a longtime resident who said past town actions cost her money and property, demanded to know which engineer's proposal the board favored and objected to plans she said would take or reduce her land. "I believe I have a right to know what each of the board members feels about this, which of those proposals you are okay with, which ones you want," she said during public comment. Board members responded that the proposals were preliminary and intended to gather data; several repeatedly urged simple, low-cost fixes first, like improved striping, stop-ahead signs and upgraded flashing lights.
The board did not authorize eminent-domain action during the meeting; members said acquiring property or condemning structures would require separate processes and further review. Several members urged pursuing grants and targeted improvements that would not require immediate property acquisition; the town engineer and building inspector were cited as parties working on inspection and condemnation steps for specific unsafe structures.
