When life saving care is needed, every second counts, and the first moments after an accident can be crucial. For any first responders – whether they are EMS teams or fire crews – the goal is to arrive on the scene of any accident within moments, which is why I’m thrilled to announce that after more than two decades, the long-sought-after ‘crash gate’ for I-84 is officially complete and ready for use. For over 20 years, local first responders and the State Police have been advocating to address the need on this inaccessible 10-mile stretch between highway exits. I likely don’t need to remind anyone reading this of the crash that occurred in September of last year, when a charter bus carrying 40 students and four adults from Farmingdale High School rolled into a ravine, resulting in two fatalities and 40 injured riders, with five in critical condition. First responders arrived as fast as they could on that scene, but their response time was impacted by logistical and infrastructure factors that this emergency entrance will address. Local advocates have long argued that a new crash gate on I-84 could cut emergency response times by 10-15 minutes, which will have a measurable, meaningful impact on public safety going forward.
Just after last years’ crash, I stood with a bipartisan group of state and local officials, urging the Governor and federal officials to cut the red tape and fully fund the life-saving project. I am thrilled to report that, as of this month, the emergency access point is complete. This is thanks in large part to the tireless efforts of the Wawayanda first responders and their advocacy over the years, as well as DOT for responding to the calls from us to expedite the process. Public safety will always be a top priority for me, and this is an investment in the safety and security of all Orange County residents and visitors.
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