WHALLONSBURG — At a second community gathering, the first being in November 2025, information concerning several possible options to reconfigure parking and possible road restructuring for the Whallonsburg Grange and Whitcomb’s Arts area were presented by the engineering firm of Creighton Manning.
Opening the meeting, Essex Town Supervisor Ken Hughes said, “This past year we have had many events which have increased activity in the area which is wonderful. We have received a $100,000 (Smart Growth, $103,355) grant through the DEC which is not funded by local taxes to conduct this study. This study does not mean the town board will do this. It also depends on the local landowners, and state.”
The rationale listed on the Essex Town Website indicates “The Town recognizes that the intersection In Whallonsburg is not as favorable to navigate as one would like. Limited sight lanes, a growing economy with more pedestrians and increased use of the Grange all contribute to a desire to improve this functionality of this area… and determine if improvements to the intersection can be made to enhance safety and functionality, regardless of the road one travels on.”
According to Hughes the process was initiated when, “A few concerned citizens brought the issue to my attention shortly after I took office. I didn’t act on it immediately but attempted to gather my own information to see whether taking the issue to the next level was warranted. I felt that after my research with residents and those who frequented the area that engaging in a professional engineering firm who handled such studies was warranted. Fortunately, we were able to secure grant funding to make that possible.”
Mark Sargent, an engineer for Creighton Manning, and Melissa Marton, a planner for the firm, presented information which included: One parking space is needed for every four seats; The Grange has a maximum occupancy of 275 and Whitcomb’s 75; On June 21 there were 69 vehicles parked for an event while the proposed plan accounts for 48.
As far as feedback, NYSDOT is supportive of the plans with sight distance being a consideration. Essex County is generally supportive though there have been no documented safety concerns. The County is also concerned about long-term maintenance.
A straw poll was taken with most in favor of the plan indicating minor realignment, with three voters wanting nothing done and a resounding no show of hands for a roundabout.
Another concern included speeding on Route 22 through the hamlet. Currently the speed limit is 45 mph with flashing indicators at both ends of the hamlet. It has been proposed to change that to 40 mph.
Hughes added, “Whether this project takes shape remains to be seen. Creating what is finally proposed would cost significant amount of money (estimated at over $350,000) that would only be able to be funded through an infrastructure grant. My goal for this process is to see what citizens thought was needed or necessary and to get a better handle of what is possible through the lens of a professional engineering firm. My priority is safety above all else for pedestrians and vehicles in this area. We have a safe area now with no known fatalities or injuries. Can we improve on this and make it better for the long term? That’s what I’m hoping to learn from this community effort.”
For additional information go to: www. essexnewyork.com/intersection-study.