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DOT to implement visibility upgrades at Ithaca intersection

DOT to implement visibility upgrades at Ithaca intersection

Photo: Saga Communications


ITHACA, NY (607NewsNow) – The New York State Department of Transportation is addressing issues at an intersection in Ithaca.

Earlier this year, Tompkins County Legislator John Hunt contacted the DOT after constituents raised safety concerns about the intersection of Pine Tree Road and NYS Route 79.

For years, residents have complained about visibility and the traffic signal at the intersection, particularly when making a left turn from Pine Tree Road onto Route 79. Many have argued that the traffic signal, which is a flashing red light for drivers on Pine Tree Road and a flashing yellow light for drivers on Route 79, should be changed.

At the October 6 meeting of the Tompkins County Legislature, Hunt shared that the DOT recently completed a study of the intersection.

“Basically, the conclusion was, while there haven’t been any accidents at the intersection for several years, they are doing some things to make visibility somewhat better,” Hunt said. “I know when you come down to the bottom of the hill on Pine Tree at 79, sometimes it’s hard to see to your left, to the east, and I think they’ve already, as of today, cut down quite a bit more of the vegetation that was blocking the view.”

Hunt said more signage will be installed near the intersection, but no additional upgrades are expected.

“The light itself is not going to be changed at this point,” added Hunt.

You can watch the full Oct. 6 meeting of the Tompkins County Legislature here.

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