'Deplorable' Route 207 will be transformed

By Geri Corey
GOSHEN — “Goshen is a picturesque village and it deserves a beautiful gateway,” said Mayor Kyle Roddey. Now, thanks to NYS Assemblyman James Skoufis, Goshen will get one.

The assemblyman announced the long-awaited news that $3 million is included in the state’s 2015-16 budget to repair Route 207 from the Route 17 interchange to Sarah Wells Trail.

The announcement — made at a May 7 press conference held on church grounds facing Route 207 in Goshen — attracted many local dignitaries who praised Assemblyman Skoufis for his work.

“This is an example of tenacity and commitment. Assemblyman Skoufis knows the issues and how important they are for the people,” said Orange County Legislator Shannon Wong. "It’s a wonderful example of representing the community."

Calling Route 207 “the heart of Goshen,” Skoufis noted that the road was last paved in 1999. He noted the “increasing deplorable state of the road with pot holes that can cause serious harm to residents and cars.”

“Goshen’s red carpet is full of holes,” said Roddey, in speaking of the positive impact that the 207 road repair will have on economic development on the downtown business district, and how beneficial a well-maintained road is to attracting businesses — especially strong businesses — to Goshen.

Terry Smallin, Executive Director of the Goshen Chamber of Commerce, agreed.

“This is a big win for Goshen’s downtown business district," he said. "This is just the latest example of Assemblyman Skoufis’ responsiveness to our concerns, and I look forward to continuing to work with him to improve our local economy.”

Skoufis is hoping to accelerate the project to completion as quickly as possible. Topping the list is design work for the road, which, because it’s in an urban setting, includes curbs and compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. The project will then be sent to the State Department of Transportation for approval and put out to bid. The bid must be signed by the contractor within 45 days.

“Assemblyman Skoufis has been a great partner and I thank him for his tireless advocacy in getting this done," said Roddey. "I’m extremely pleased 207 is finally getting the attention it deserves.”