SERINO/BYRNE BILL TO NAME PUDDING STREET OVERPASS IN HONOR OF PUTNAM VALLEY FIRST RESPONDERS HAS BEEN SIGNED INTO LAW
July 22, 2022
PUTNAM VALLEY, NY— The Pudding Street Overpass, located on the Taconic Parkway in the Town of Putnam Valley, has officially been renamed the Putnam Valley First Responders Bridge. Senator Sue Serino and Assemblyman Kevin Byrne introduced legislation earlier in the year to rename the overpass in honor of the town’s first responders, whose service is an integral part of the Putnam Valley community. The newly built overpass was completed in the summer of 2021, eliminating a dangerous intersection across the Taconic that motorists, school buses, and first responders used to travel across the town.
Serino and Byrne’s legislation (A08455A, S07224-A) passed both houses in June, and was signed into law by Governor Hochul on July 21st as part of a package of legislation dedicating portions of the New York State highway system to veterans and first responders.
Senator Sue Serino said, “Putnam Valley’s first responders go above and beyond for our community, and it was thanks in large part to their push for change that the long-awaited Pudding Street Overpass ultimately became a reality. To have the opportunity to name this bridge in their honor is a meaningful moment not only for me, but for every resident who worked tirelessly to get this project over the finish line. It is one small way we can thank them for their selfless service, and remind them that they always have a grateful community behind them, and I thank all of our local partners, and those at the State Department of Transportation, for never giving up on this critical project.”
"The completion of the Pudding Street Overpass was a tremendous accomplishment that I and many other officials long advocated for alongside members of the community, including our brave first responders,” said Assemblyman Kevin Byrne. The previous intersection at Pudding Street and the Taconic State Parkway created all sorts of dangerous safety hazards for motorists, school bus children, and first responders. Our police, firefighters, and emergency medical service providers in Putnam Valley perform vital services that the community depends on. It’s fitting to honor them with this dedication. I thank Senator Sue Serino, Putnam Valley Town Supervisor Annabi, and Governor Hochul for their assistance in making this project and dedication a reality."
Putnam Valley Town Supervisor Jackie Annabi said, “The Town of Putnam Valley is thrilled to be able to honor our first responders at such a critical roadway in our community and we cannot thank Senator Serino and Assemblyman Byrne enough for their support in this endeavor. What once was a hazardous pass that brought first responders out to accident after accident, will now serve as a symbol of safety and appreciation for their service. We thank everyone who joined in our efforts to help make the Pudding Street Overpass a reality.”
Governor Kathy Hochul, while discussing the package of legislation she signed, said, "Our veterans and first responders have always stood up for us and answered the call to protect and serve New Yorkers, and we will continue to stand by them." I am proud to sign this package of legislation that recognizes and honors the contributions and sacrifice of New York's veterans and first responders, and will help ensure that their legacies live on for generations."