By Robert Jowaiszas, Community Editor/Reporter
Clarkstown is in the midst of major road and bridge improvements, from the West Nyack Road revitalization to the Route 304 bridge over Interstate 287 in New City. While these projects are essential for safety and long-term infrastructure, residents and business owners say communication and project management could have been better.
West Nyack Road: A Revitalization with Growing Pains
The $7.8 million West Nyack Road project stretches from Strawtown Road to Western Highway. Work includes drainage upgrades, repaving, sidewalks, utility improvements, decorative lighting, landscaping, and a redesigned four-way intersection replacing the old “triangle.” Major construction is expected to finish by summer 2025.
Town Engineering Director Michael Gianatasio said: “When this work is finished, residents will see a safer, cleaner, and more accessible roadway that benefits everyone.”
Supervisor George Hoehmann acknowledged the temporary disruptions: “We understand that detours can disrupt daily routines, but these improvements are necessary to enhance the area’s infrastructure and prevent future issues.”
On-site, Cory Bitts of Montesano Bros. added: “We’ve increased drainage capacity, added new overhead lighting, and soon there will be upgraded parkway features. The buses are still running—I don’t believe the stores have been heavily affected.”
Despite these assurances, local businesses have felt the impact. After 33 years in business, West Nyack Pizzarena closed, with owner Rich Genova noting that construction disruptions played a part. Social media and community responses reflected the loss:
“That’s heartbreaking for the owners.” — Reddit user
“Every time I pass by, I feel so sorry for the businesses. The road’s been torn up for months. It looks like they couldn’t survive it.” — Reddit user Moonflowergirl2024
“I stopped by Pizzarena to support one of the local businesses—it’s really sad to see them close.” — Town of Clarkstown Facebook post
Other small businesses report similar struggles. Lulu’s Café manager Robert said: “Everyone lost business. People just stopped coming because they thought everything was blocked off.”
Carla, manager of Joanna Spa, added: “I lost a lot of business. I wish the town had provided better updates.”
Even deliveries and mail have been affected. Chanel, a West Nyack Post Office worker, shared: “They acted like they owned the road. Rarely let us do our jobs properly. Our deliveries were late sometimes.”
Transit has also been disrupted. TOR dispatcher Kayla explained: “The 59 buses are rerouting through Sickletown Road toward Nyack and Crossfield Road to Suffern. Sometimes we’re told the road is open, but drivers still find it closed.”
Town PR officer Erika Moschetti admitted: “We’re monitoring safety and environmental impact closely, but public communication could be better. I’ve offered to coordinate press releases and make sure the TOR office and local media are informed so residents and businesses know exactly what’s happening.”
Weekly updates have been posted on the town’s Facebook page and in press releases, but many residents say these notices didn’t always reach them in time to plan around detours or closures.
Route 304 Bridge: Essential Repairs with Real-World Frustrations
The Route 304 bridge over Interstate 287, built in 1953, is undergoing a full rehabilitation at a cost of $17.3 million. Work includes a new joint-free deck, steel girder and pier repairs, utility upgrades, and recycled asphalt paving. Completion is expected summer 2026.
State and local officials emphasize the project’s importance. Senator William Weber said: “The rehabilitation of the State Route 304 bridge over Interstate 287 is much needed and will be welcomed by all.”
Former Assembly member Kenneth Zebrowski added: “Route 304 is a major thoroughfare through Rockland County. This work will make a noticeable difference for thousands of Rocklanders a day who use Route 304 to get around the County.”
Supervisor Hoehmann reminded residents that safety and traffic flow are central concerns: “Traffic and safety conditions along NYS Routes 303 and 304 have a tremendous impact on the daily lives of many of Clarkstown’s residents.”
Residents, however, are feeling the strain. Jennifer McPhee noted: “The new sidewalks on 304 are great, yet half the areas are not being mowed. Additionally, in the winter these sidewalks need to be plowed. Who is doing that?”
Another local Facebook commenter said: “Road work needed to be done years ago, but it’s a pain now. Better planning and communication would have made this easier for everyone.”
The state has issued notices about lane reductions and shoulder closures, and the town hosted public workshops for the Route 303 & 304 Corridors Study to gather community input. Yet many residents continue to experience uncertainty around traffic and pedestrian access.
Bottom Line
Both the West Nyack Road and Route 304 bridge projects are vital to Clarkstown’s infrastructure. But for residents, commuters, and business owners, the benefits come with real challenges. Lane closures, detours, and communication gaps have caused frustration and business losses.
As one editorial note reminds: “Transparent communication is just as important as the construction itself.”
The hope is that as work continues, the town and state will coordinate updates more effectively, provide clear signage, support small businesses, and ensure that necessary improvements don’t come at too high a cost to the community. We’ll continue to keep readers informed with weekly updates, so you know what’s happening on your roads and in your neighborhoods.