The Eastwick Press Newspaper

Eastern Rensselaer County's Community Newspaper

County Legislators Renew Call For Route 7 Safety Review

By

submitted by Rich Crist, Majority Legislative Liaison
Following another serious incident with a tanker truck, members of the Rensselaer County Legislature are renewing the calls for a safety review on a section of State Route 7 in the Town of Hoosick.
Last week, a tanker truck left the road, slid down an embankment and burst into flames. The truck was carrying over 8,000 gallons of unleaded gasoline, and much of the gas went into a nearby creek.
[private]There were also reports of another accident this past weekend in the same location as the tanker truck.
Legislators said they are worried about the possibility of future accidents and risk to other motorists and nearby homes and businesses.
“There have been two serious incidents involving tanker trucks loaded with fuel in just the past two years. Along with those accidents, there have been many more accidents and near-misses,” said Vice Chairman of the Legislature Stan Brownell.
The request for a State review of safety conditions on State Route 7 follows two previous requests for safety reviews on the State highway. In 2008, following a series of accidents in the Potter Hill area, legislators approved a request for a safety review on the highway.
In July 2011, following another serious accident involving the rollover of a tanker truck carrying approximately 10,000 gallons of propane, legislators renewed the request for a safety review.
Legislators said they would like a review to include a look at lighting, speed conditions, visibility and signage on the section of State Route 7 through the Town of Hoosick.
“Given the frequency and seriousness of these accidents, we are concerned about the safety of those who regularly travel or live on and near State Route 7. We believe a review would help answer some concerns and possibly point out some improvements that help boost safety and travel on the road,” said Legislator Lester Goodermote.
The Legislature is expected to consider a resolution at the March legislative meeting renewing the request for a safety review on State Route 7. If approved, the request would be sent to NY State DOT, the Governor and representatives of Rensselaer County in the State Legislature.[/private]