The stretch of Route 7 near Bellevue Hospital has long been a dangerous roadway, and recent tragic incidents, including the heartbreaking loss of Assemblymember Smullen’s son, have underscored the urgent need for safety improvements. We cannot wait for more lives to be lost before action is taken.

I have been in close communication with Town of Niskayuna Supervisor Erin Cassady-Dorion to address these concerns and advocate for meaningful changes to this corridor. Road safety must be a priority, particularly in high-risk areas like Route 7. Specifically, I recommend that a traffic light be installed near the two bus stops by the Bellevue Woman's Center.

Currently, the Capital Region Transportation Council is conducting the Niskayuna NY 7 Complete Streets Plan, a study aimed at enhancing safety and improving mobility for all users of Route 7. This initiative will build upon the Town’s comprehensive plan, complete streets resolution, and other safety efforts to develop a strategic plan for necessary improvements. The study, which is being jointly managed with the Town of Niskayuna, is expected to be completed by the end of this year. I will continue pushing for solutions that make this roadway safer for everyone.

Additionally, the Schenectady Sheriff’s Office and New York State Troopers are keenly aware of the situation and are continuing to heavily patrol the area to ensure drivers are following speed limits, as speeding has been a major factor in many accidents. Their efforts are critical in keeping our roads safe as we work toward long-term infrastructure improvements.