NY 2 (Congress and Ferry Streets)
Corridor Improvements PROJECT

I write as an RPI alumnus and former resident of the City of Troy. While I now reside across the river in Colonie, I return to Troy regularly to enjoy cultural events, to shop at the farmers market, and to patronize the many fine restaurants and small businesses downtown Troy has to offer (and to attend the occasional hockey game at my alma mater). While I frequently ride my bike when I'm on my own, I more often drive, as I'm accompanied other family members. In both cases, I am very aware of the challenges that have prompted the work on the Route 2 Corridor.

I'm concerned about the City's decision to use Alternative 1A. The size of the lanes means increased traffic speed, with commensurate increases in noise, pollution, and danger from moving vehicles. The loss of tree cover will make walking less pleasant throughout the corridor. The reduction in parking will make it more difficult to travel to Troy, even if the first two problems didn't discourage me from coming in the first place. Even the added bike lane is largely unusable, as the lack of any barrier from the higher speed moving traffic will make it uncomfortable to use at best. And having lived for a number of years a block away from the corridor, I can't imagine it being better for the City's residents either.

In short, the City's preferred choice doesn't seem to solve any of the problems that motivated the project to begin with. There are better options available. Alternative 1B, and even Alternative 1A Modified address many of the concerns above. I urge the City to reconsider its choice.

As a resident of Troy, I am opposed to Alternative 1A for a number of reasons, which I think Capital Streets has done a great job outlining for the public. The issues that are especially troubling for me are: 1) Parking/bikes lanes: because double-parking is already a huge problem on that corridor, removing parking spaces will just make things worse. I'd love to see functional and PROTECTED bike lanes along Congress and Ferry but as we have seen throughout the region, unprotected bike lanes just become unsanctioned parking spaces for cars. 2) The removal of mature, healthy, beautiful street trees is so short-sighted and ill-advised for the whole host of environmental, economic, aesthetic, and psychological reasons that I know many others have brought to your attention. The City and many of its developers and residents remove an excessive number of mature trees, and the City needs to develop and ENFORCE a comprehensive plan to maintain as many mature trees as possible. Only a small number get replaced - with very small, young trees, half of which die in the first few years for lack of watering. The trees along Congress and Ferry are part of what makes our cityscape beautiful and we should do everything we can to preserve them.

I think that the unnecessary cutting down of the trees for this plan is absolutely unacceptable. If the trees need a little bit more sidewalk cut away, I'm fine with that, but this mature canopy provides shade, stormwater retention, and helps cool an urban landscape. They help clean the air and sequester carbon in amounts that newly planted trees won't match for decades, and in the meantime the residents of Troy will suffer.

Please know it is a beautiful having, to keep the trees alive. To have life is beneficial to life. The trees help the Swede systems from being flooded, they help the economy, they help the air, and they help keep the history of Troy alive. They are relics of our ability to sustain life.

I am opposed to the removal of the corridor of mature tress and loss of parking included in Alternative 1A.

I am opposed to the city's proposed 1A solution and urge the city choose a design that will preserve as many of the beautiful trees that line this corridor as possible. The loss of so many trees is not necessary or acceptable. Similarly, as more people move into the city, the loss of so many street parking spaces which will occur with the proposed 1A solution is short-sighted and unwise. Finally, while the inclusion of dedicated bike lanes is welcome, the city should adopt a design that slows traffic and better protects bikers (and pedestrians). Alternative 1B and Alternative 1A Modified are both better choices for Troy and its residents.

As a property owner in downtown Troy and cyclist myself, I agree with Capital Streets assessment that some amount of bike lane protection is needed. Drivers can and will park in the bike lane with option 1A, and we need to prevent that. A proposal that separates the moving traffic from the bike lane by a parking area seems most appropriate. Also, please don’t remove trees! We need them for shade and CO2 apsorbtion. They are an asset to our city.

Very excited about more bike lanes in this area. However, the mature street trees need to be protected and the funds need to be spent for them to be moved and preserved vs. cut down. The shade they provide is crucial for temperature regulation and their beauty is so important to making this area an enjoyable place to live and come to spend money at businesses. Even the renderings shared include these large lovely trees as part of the vision. Without trees it will look dead and sad! Please protect them while improving this area. NO to 1A! 1B or a new proposal!

I am against the City’s “preferred alternative” (Alternative 1A) due to destruction of some of the most beautiful trees.
Alternative 1B and Alternative 1A can help restore and replace while keeping the beauty, shade, and air quality at a high level.

As a Troy resident and as a Russell Sage professor, I am so proud to show off the tree-lined spaces and beautiful spaces that make our city look so inviting. I’m a proud Troy resident but Troy still has a reputation as being a tough place full of crime. Tree-lined beauty makes our students want to come. They’re not scared away. They’re proud too, their parents want them to go to Russell Sage, our enrollment grows, they spend more money in Troy. When you have an ugly city and an ugly campus perimeter people don’t come. It’s all about invitation and opportunity. Take the long opportunity and keep making this city beautiful. Otherwise this project will just be the 2025 version of the Atrium.

Street trees provide much needed shade in summer as well as better air and livability year round. Please work with a tree specialist to fix issues with trees & sidewalks rather than wholesale cut them all down.

I am against Alternative 1A. The residents and visitors of Troy deserve safe and effective bike and pedestrian infrastructure. Alternative 1A falls miserably short of this with wide and unprotected bike lanes. In fact, Alternative 1A also falls short of safe and effective infrastructure for motorists as it would take away parking spots—exacerbating existing illegal parking issues.
The removal of most/all trees along Congress and Ferry Street is irrelevant to making Troy safer for cyclists, pedestrians, and motorists. Trees can be retained, and there are two plans that can preserve trees while delivering safety and access to cyclists and pedestrians.
Plans 1A Modified and 1B will see that cyclists, pedestrians, motorists, residents, visitors, and even leaf-peepers get to enjoy Troy safely.
$17 million invested in plan 1A Modified or 1B is $17 million well-spent.

I am against the city’s provided 1A solution. The alternative 1A solution puts riders at risk and destroys Troy’s beautiful trees

I strongly believe that the City of Troy's preferred Alternative 1A is a bad idea and does not meet the needs of residents of Troy. The city proposed other options such as Alternative 1B and Alternative 1A Modified that better meet the needs of the residents through safe traffic/urban design with the inclusion of a protected bike lane and natural shaded infrastructure. In addition, part of the reason I love living in Troy is it's charm and pedestrian focus, the streets have ample shade for walking to downtown on a hot day which is provided by it's many trees. I've also noticed that these same trees help reduce speeds by creating a feeling of tight space for vehicles despite the road actually being quite wide. Without the trees and with a bike lane that is only painted on I strongly believe we will see the same thing that happens on streets like river street; cars will speed when they see a wide open space and they will drive on the bike path endangering cyclists and pedestrians alike. Moving forward with a decision like Alternative 1A will only isolate south Troy residents from the downtown district, it will be more dangerous to cross and harder to bike with more open space for cars to speed. I walk to the farmers market with my niece and nephew and if Alternative 1A is move forward with then I wont feel safe walking them to the market anymore. Please move forward with Alternative 1B and Alternative 1A Modified instead and please do not cut down the trees.

I support the inclusion of bike lanes but am upset at the proposal of careless tree removal and “cost effective” remedies for new sidewalks. This is absolutely not a time to take the cheap or easy way out to rush a project that has the potential to do a lot of good.
The concrete corner that is 4th and congress is a great example of what we do not want our city to look like. If any trees are removed quickly or overzealously without clear care for their history and value to the neighborhood, I would definitely consider moving out of my neighborhood on 2nd street.
We want accessible and safe walkways and roadways, but not at the cost of mass uprooting of trees for a “cost-effective” sidewalk plan. This is literally your job.
You should have a fundraiser or something to raise funds for a less cost effective plan, propel in the neighborhood will help

I am a frequent visitor to Troy for farmer's markets and to visit the local businesses. I am also an alumnus of Russell Sage. Proposition 1A would be detrimental to the community of Troy. Other propositions offer safer alternatives without sacrificing old growth trees or parking. Please work to involve the community's voice and keep Troy walkable and safe for pedestrians, motorists, and bicyclists.

Downtown Troy simply would not be as safe or as beautiful without the trees that this plan would like to remove from our sidewalks. Please reconsider this plan to protect each other and our trees!

The report officially dismissed 1B from consideration due to maintenance difficulties, upgrading traffic signals, and route conflicts along alleyways and intersections. But these points pale in comparison to the host of problems that the proposed alternative would create. Allowing for 12-foot wide roads - widths commonly seen on highways - would only encourage speeding from drivers on both Congress and Ferry St, mitigating the benefit from reducing the lanes.

These problems could have been alleviated through implementing protected infrastructure, but the proposed alternative’s improvements are at best lackluster. Painted buffer lanes do not provide adequate protection for bicyclists or pedestrians from speeding drivers compared to that of a concrete barrier - a feature that the CRTC’s design guide recommends over painted buffers. Curbs along the intersections aren’t extended nor do they incentivize drivers to slow down while turning, diminishing both the vision and safety of pedestrians trying to cross the street.

Alternative 1B’s proposal employs features that have been found to work, like in Albany’s South Pearl Street. Traffic signals would have to be changed to account for the two-way bike lane, and maintenance duties would change with the addition of the concrete barrier. However these tradeoffs have been made in cities throughout the world, and these changes more often than not result in safer, walkable streets.

This proposal is a step backward in the future of Troy. For too long downtown was treated like something to move through rapidly on the way to somewhere else. The downtown area is repopulating and part of that is providing safe streets with traffic calming, and pedestrian/biker protection. This Proposal is in the opposite direction. Also the street trees in downtown provide great character, and also heat island preventing shade. To Remove 79 of them is just again the wrong direction. The best approach would be to calm the traffic through downtown and encourage alternate routes rather than just traffic rushing through the city. This proposal is several years behind Good urban planning practice, and treats the city as if we are still in the 1970s.

As a Troy resident and homeowner, I strongly oppose to “the city’s preferred” Alternative 1A. Prioritizing drivers comes at the expense of Troy residents like myself who live, work, recreate in and around the project area that the city government utilizes as an advertising scheme. Infrastructure development and improvement, such as what’s proffered here, should prioritize the immediate residents with the goal of planning for a future where the area has MORE residents, not simply more commuters or tourists.

Alternative 1A Modified and Alternative 1B achieve those goals and provide a balanced solution to the actual residents, future residents and developers in the study area, and those who simply commute through it.

I am writing to provide comment on the NY2 improvement project. I’m concerned the City’s preferred alternative, Alternative 1A, will not provide the intended positive impact to the area. The absence of traffic calming elements, no pedestrian improvements, and number of street trees to be removed is very concerning. Walkability is a huge asset to downtown Troy and a primary reason I relocated to the area. Alternative 1B and 1A Modified are better options to improve safety and efficiency. Regardless of the selected design, including traffic calming elements like curb extensions, narrower travel lanes, improving pedestrian access, and preserving mature trees is crucial to improving this corridor.

I am writing to provide comment on the NY2 improvement project. I’m concerned the City’s preferred alternative, Alternative 1A, will not provide the intended positive impact to the area. The absence of traffic calming elements, no pedestrian improvements, and number of street trees to be removed is very concerning. Walkability is a huge asset to downtown Troy and a primary reason I relocated to the area. Alternative 1B and 1A Modified are better options to improve safety and efficiency. Regardless of the selected design, including traffic calming elements like curb extensions, narrower travel lanes, improving pedestrian access, and preserving mature trees is crucial to improving this corridor.

I know, under the political climate, my comments regarding the Congress And Ferry Street Corridor Improvement project will likely be dismissed. Regardless, as a resident of Downtown Troy who walks the streets daily, rides a bike and drives a car, I feel compelled to offer my perspective in the hopes that a more thoughtful approach will prevail. I fear that the plan, as currently proposed, will have a long-term negative impact on our city’s economy and qualify of life. I trust that is not the intention of the administration.

I could go into great detail why I believe the currently chosen path forward has significant flaws. But I will try to be brief, and offer just a few points I believe to be most important:

Our beautiful tree canopy
This proposal includes removing the majority of old growth trees in the improvement area. This will greatly change the appearance, temperature, and thus, attractiveness of this corridor. It could also have a long-term negative socio-economic impact on the area. Other cities have found better ways of making improvements possible, while saving the majority of their old growth tree canopy. We should learn from them. Conversely, the city of Albany cut down most of the trees in the Lark Street corridor about 30 years ago. At the time, Lark Street was a thriving, up and coming mixed use neighborhood. After the trees were cut down, the area has been in steady decline and has not recovered. Downtown Troy is a thriving, up and coming place to live work and play. However, that trajectory is fragile and a negative impact of this magnitude could be detrimental to its continued economic success.

The bike lane plan
I am an avid biker and ride Troy’s streets and the region around us regularly. I have also been privileged to visit many places around the country and world where biking is bringing a huge economic impact to those communities. The one thing that all of those other places share in common is protective barriers for bike lanes. If we want to be successful at making biking an economic driver in Troy, we need protective barriers. Without them, bikers will feel endangered and motorists will be angered and act aggressively by having to share their road with the lowly bikers. They already act that way. The current proposed path forward (Alternative 1A) does not have protective barriers. Alternative 1A modified and Alternative 1B do a much better job at achieving the project’s goals.

I am a resident of Troy and against the city’s preferred Alternative 1A. As a resident, I am often walking downtown (and usually with my dog) and am very concerned about the absence of traffic calming elements in this proposal. Speeding and pedestrian/cyclist safety is an ongoing concern in this city, and proposals Alternative 1B and 1A Modified do a better job of creating safer streets. Additionally, I don’t agree with the removal of so many mature trees downtown and the negative impact that will have on the environment of our city. Finally, we cannot decrease parking availability (which is part of Alternative 1A.) downtown hosts many wonderful events and reducing parking would only increase the difficulty of attending events as well as traffic issues due to double parking/etc. I urge the city to prioritize safety and the environment for Troy residents and visitors.

I'm against 1A. What happened to 1A modified or 1B? It makes no sense to have an unprotected bike lane. An unprotected bike lane is just illegal parking and we have enough of that now. It also makes no sense to put a bike lane in the tunnel. Glad that you guys added a bus stop on River before the bridge. Choose the safer options.

As a resident of Troy, I’m concerned about the proposed project for the Congress and Ferry Street Corridor.
The City’s proposal, Alternative 1A, with its wide lanes, will promote speeding and result in a significant net loss in parking spaces and trees along the route. The unprotected bike lane will surely result in people being double-parked there, which is already a problem in the area. Alternative 1B and 1A Modified would do a better job of creating safer streets on Congress and Ferry. I ask that you consider curb extensions, keeping and maintaining all of the trees in the area, and building narrower travel lanes to reduce speeding and make that area safe. It takes maybe 3 minutes to get from Congress and 4th to the bridge to Watervliet, and, coming east, from Watervliet to Ferry and 4th. Instead of shaving seconds off for drivers, please consider the bigger picture for pedestrians and bikers. Keep our city walkable--it's one of our strengths.

This $17 million project represents a major investment in Troy’s future, and we have to get it right. The current plan, unfortunately, falls short. We need to design a corridor that is safe, inviting, and promotes freedom of movement for everyone: pedestrians, cyclists, drivers, and public transit riders alike.

That means retaining and planting street trees, widening sidewalks, improving crosswalks and intersections, narrowing vehicle lanes, adding protected bike lanes, and increasing street parking to calm traffic and support local businesses.

The group Capital Streets has done an excellent job articulating the principles of good street design and tracking this issue in detail — I encourage everyone to read their analysis here: https://www.capitalstreets.org/ny-rt-2-action
. I trust their judgment on this project.

As someone who has read The Death and Life of Great American Cities by Jane Jacobs, Happy City by Charles Montgomery, The Well-Tempered City by Jonathan F. P. Rose, and Strong Towns by Charles L. Marohn, I can say there is overwhelming consensus among planners and researchers about what makes urban corridors thrive. With construction costs rising and public resources increasingly limited, we cannot afford to invest millions into outdated, car-centric infrastructure when better, proven solutions are at hand.

Please help ensure Troy makes a smarter, people-centered choice for this critical project.

I live in Troy near Congress Street and serve as the Executive Director of a nonprofit on Congress Street. My background is in Chemical Engineering and Engineering Entrepreneurship from Penn State, and my professional experience includes community organizing and urban planning.

I lived at the corner of 4th and Ferry for 5 years and still frequent this beautiful corridor. The trees and businesses along Route 2 make Troy such a vibrant place. Please reconsider Alternative 1A as it will have a negative impact on the environment, safety, and businesses. The loss of the beautiful trees will increase urban heat island effect. The proposed street redesign will encourage cars to go even faster. I once was almost hit by a driver as I crossed Ferry street by the old taxi stand. My pedestrian walking signal turned and as I stepped out into the cross walk a car who had a blatant red light sped inches in front of me through the intersection. We do not need to encourage cars to go faster through here. Alternative 1B presents a safer alternative for cyclists and pedestrians. I also understand that the sidewalks here are not accessible- I am a parent and use an all-terrain jogging stroller to navigate Troy sidewalks. Careful consideration should be made to what trees can be preserved while making the sidewalks accessible. This corridor houses some Troys most iconic businesses. They will suffer if pedestrians feel unsafe, parking is reduced even further, and the beautiful trees are removed.

I'm reaching out to ask that, while I see 25 street trees will be removed, I truly hope they will be replaced with mature trees and not saplings. Additionally, I'd like to see roots trimmed, tree pits made larger, and sidewalk sections replaced for any trees within that number (25) that this is possible to do.

Our mature street trees are a MAJOR draw to pedestrians, and a benefit to property owners and businesses for both being shown to increase resale values AND retail sales by large margins when compared to streetscapes that exclude trees. They also help delineate the street, which is critical in our downtown, and provide passive traffic calming as it's proven that motorists drive slower and pay more attention in tree lined streets. They also provide a buffer between traffic and pedestrians. However, this primarily applies to mature trees. Their benefit cannot be understated. As a downtown business owner myself, and as a recent downtown resident, mature street trees actually impact the streets I not only consider relocating my business to (in 2026) but also the streets I walk down as a shopper. I go to Sunhees literally because of the presence of the honey locusts. I avoid walking 3rd street when I could walk 2nd street ONLY because of the street trees. Even if I am going to Hatchet Hardware, I'll walk down 2nd and turn on State to avoid 3rd ONLY because of the lack of mature street trees. I go to Jacob Alejandro over Stack's for the same reason, especially in the summer. Mature street trees. I could go on and on, but I know I'm not the only one. This is why studies show that the presence of trees has been shown to increase business income by 20%!

Additionally, I don't think that Alternative 1A adequately protects bicyclists. Please consider the addition of bollards or other traffic calming devices between driving lanes and bicycle lanes. I also do not think the turn radius of our downtown corners should be widened - which will only increase the speed at which motorists can take turns where pedestrians and bikers are vulnerable to being hit. We already see this at the corner of River and 1st, near the apartments. If we truly want to make this city better for those with ADA needs, walkers, and bicyclists we should not make improvements that will enable motorists to take turns faster at our corners.

Thank you for your time. I am very happy to see traffic flow improvements,

Hurray for bicycle lanes! Will bicycle lanes extend to the Congress St bridge? If not, why not.

Please don't cut the beautiful trees! If it can't be done without cutting trees, don't do it.

I vote for Alternative 1B. One-way bicycle lanes make zero sense.

I’m concerned that Alternative 1A will not bring positive changes to the rt 2 corridor. There are no traffic-calming elements and number of street trees slated for removal is extremely concerning. Alternative 1B and 1A Modified do a better job of creating safer streets on Congress and Ferry. Including traffic calming elements like curb extensions, narrower travel lanes, and preserving mature trees is crucial. We should be adding green spaces and improving walkable/bikeable infrastructure, not removing it.

Hello, I am a Troy resident who is vehemently opposed to alternative 1A because it makes my neighborhood more dangerous, less walkable and downright stark. It will also take away parking in my neighborhood, limited as it is, making it harder to live my day to day life. The plans to remove many of the trees that beautify our neighborhoods, add charm and character to our streets, and provide a resting place for wildlife that make the city lively and interesting would be a shameful mistake. Troy is already becoming a ghost town, it’s depressing to walk empty streets with little going on and ugly apartment buildings popping up left and right. Why would we dump money into yet another project that sucks the life out of this city and drives downtown residents away. Soon it will be reduced to nothing, and that is a heartbreaking thought. Please, for once, side with the people of Troy and save our streets.

As a resident of downtown Troy, I do not support Alternative 1A. I do not think this plan will bring positive changes that would benefit the city of Troy. The absence of traffic calming elements and number of street trees that would be removed in Alternative 1A is concerning and unsafe. Alternative 1A is not pedestrian or biker-friendly and would cause significantly more harm to Troy than good. The tree-lined streets are a part of what makes this city a beautiful place to live. Alternative 1B and Alternative 1A Modified would better meet the project’s objectives.

I am writing in opposition to the city’s plan (alternative 1A) for the Ferry / Congress St. corridor. Like many here, Troy’s vibrant community is a huge draw - which walkability and a connection to both an urban and natural environment contributes to. I am also concerned by the city’s seeming unwillingness to engage the community on this. Utilizing public money on a project with a high cost deserves careful thought and planning with public input. And clearly, residents/workers/visitors care about this showing widespread support for improving the city’s streets with 1B. Regardless of which design direction the City goes in, including traffic calming elements like curb extensions, narrower travel lanes, and preserving mature trees is crucial to improving this corridor. The proposed 1A plan is not in the best long-term interest for the community. Walking and biking needs to be encouraged and so I strongly support 1B.

Is there a way that we can avoid cutting down trees? As someone who already navigates these streets as a pedestrian, bike rider, and driver, the preferred plan (1A) would negatively impacting the environment and community. One of the greatest parts of Troy is that it feels like it is rich in history, which the trees are a part of. The canopies they provide make downtown Troy an enjoyable place to be—why would you consider taking away that beauty?

I’m strongly opposed to the City’s “preferred alternative,” Alternative 1A. It simply doesn’t reflect what residents have asked for or what this corridor really needs.

Better options already exist. Designs like Alternative 1B or Alternative 1A Modified do a much better job of meeting the project’s goals: improving safety, maintaining good traffic flow, and preserving the unique character of the area.

Alternative 1A would remove far too many trees, invite faster driving, and make the street less safe for people walking or biking. Beyond that, losing so much tree canopy would increase stormwater runoff and heat, hurting both neighbors and the environment.

This corridor means a lot to me. The trees, the walkability, and the sense of place are what make it special. I hope Troy will take another look and choose a design that truly supports safety, sustainability, and the character of our community.

This seems unnecessary and the cons outweigh the pros. As a resident of Troy, this would decrease parking (which there is already little of) and cause even more traffic issues downtown. In addition, this also seems like a waste of money and the funds could be utilized in other places.

This seems unnecessary and the cons outweigh the pros. As a resident of Troy, this would decrease parking (which there is already little of) and cause even more traffic issues downtown. In addition, this also seems like a waste of money and the funds could be utilized in other places.

Against the preferred alternative 1A!!! The other proposed plans like Alternative 1B or Alternative 1A MODIFIED are much better ideas. The speeding will be outrageous with alternative 1A plan, the fact that we’d be losing the beautiful trees that make Troy amazing and give us oxygen is ridiculous. Troy has been a second home to myself and so so so soooo many of my friends and family. My family who has grown up in this town for 3 generations. We love Troy. We love that it’s getting better and safer to be around. But to make it ugly with this project, to take the glory of nature away, that’s not making Troy better. It’s making it less of a neighborhood and family residence for people to love, attacking the community and everything this city stands for. DO NOT MOVE FORWARD WITH THE ALTERNATIVE 1A PLAN! THERE ARE BETTER OPTIONS!!!!!!!!

Alternative 1a, the city’s preferred design for the congress/ferry corridor, will not make downtown thrive and will only cause more issues than it solves. People and businesses will suffer due to the lack of ample parking and the bike lane will be a nightmare for cyclists. Removing trees will not benefit pedestrians. Pedestrians will not benefit from cars flying by at unsafe speeds. There are better alternatives than the preferred, and the better alternatives will benefit the people of Troy more than this preferred design without a doubt.

Who wants this project??? This is absurd. Total waste of resources and hugely negative impacts on the future of our community. I drive on Congress nearly every day. This plan is terrible. Expect opposition at every turn till this plan disappears.

i’m not really sure how this plan got as far as it did. I am against Alt 1A. As someone who bikes downtown, Congress and Ferry are not great choices for the routes. As a biker and driver in Troy I do not want to see more traffic on this street. How about a two way bike path on State street? or one way on State street and one way on Broadway. Just not Congress and Ferry. There’s enough traffic as is and I don’t want to worry about killing someone because they don’t follow the bike lane rules. Or be killed while on my bike. It’s too much. Let’s save the trees. They make a huge difference when it comes to how our city feels. Cities without mature trees are ugly.

As a property owner and resident of downtown Troy I am disappointed and distressed by the City’s plans for the Troy NY 2 Corridor. The Alternative 1A proposal has numerous flaws . The environmental and aesthetic impact of cutting down 79 mature trees and replacing them with immature trees will be devastating. Mature trees provide shelter and shade and lower temperatures in the summer . The existing trees along Congress Street and Sage Park are major contributors to the beauty and charm of the area. Please note what happened on Lark Street in Albany when the mature trees were cut down. The area has never recovered. It’s a shell of its former vibrant self. Don’t let this happen to Troy! There are alternatives and a professional arborist should be consulted before making this drastic move which will impact the area for decades to come.
The City of Troy needs protected bike lanes in order to encourage more bicyclists to safely enjoy and access our beautiful city. This will encourage business and improve the quality of life for us all.
Please, we need to do better than this ill-advised plan.

i have lived on the Eastside of the city for 40 years. One of the most impressive things about downtown is the trees. I have had many , many guests over the years and every single person has commented positively about the trees. Especially the tress on congress St. and Ferry St. Removing any of these trees would directly impact the beauty of the area. I would hope alternative measures will be taken to save all the existing trees.

As a frequently visitor of Troy, I am firmly against the City’s Alternative 1A
The projects goals can be met with mitigation to the ambiance on downtown and overall safety. The trees not only provide oxygen but add to the overall beauty as well.
As of now, the alternative poses dangerous risks to the community.
I enjoy walking the corridor when I’m in Troy and would hate for this area to be negatively impacted as I just won’t spend my time or money there anymore. I really enjoy the farmers markets, for instance. The parking can already be crazy enough. Consider the people that make the community, they want to feel safe to enjoy Troy.

Hello, I am a Troy resident who is deeply opposed to alternative 1A because it makes my neighborhood more dangerous and less walkable. It will also take away parking in my neighborhood, making it harder to live my day to day life. It also plans to remove many of the trees I love sharing my neighborhood with, which will in turn drive away birds and all kinds of wildlife that I consider neighbors. Focus on tackling real problems like rising costs and landlord corruption due to lack of tenant rights instead of these non-issues that only benefit non residents.

I’m concerned the City’s preferred alternative, Alternative 1A, will not bring positive changes to the corridor or meet the project objectives. The absence of traffic calming elements and number of street trees slated for removal is extremely concerning. Alternative 1B and 1A Modified do a better job of creating safer streets on Congress and Ferry. Regardless of which design direction the City goes in, including traffic calming elements like curb extensions, narrower travel lanes, and preserving mature trees is crucial to improving this corridor.

I often commute down Route 2 to get from work to downtown Troy, and the speed of traffic combined with the consistent double-parking/parking illegally has made this route hazardous for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists, regardless of posted "no parking" signs (this is not new: from the window of the brewery I used to work for, I would watch people double-park with their hazards on constantly). In light of this, I am alarmed at the city's proposal of Alternative 1A in its lack of traffic calming elements: without these, and most especially, without a protected bike lane, this will result in more illegal parking. Aside from my commute, I often ride my bike in downtown Troy, and Alternative 1A seems to be extremely unsafe, especially in that Route 2 is so highly trafficked, and traffic moves at such high speeds. Please protect the bike lanes to prevent illegal parking, and to put the safety of cyclists and drivers first!

In regards to removing trees on congress street and ferry street: please don’t do that. the trees are so important for so many reasons and they make my entire neighborhood so much happier to live in. I’ve lived here for a few years now and seeing trees get taken out for no reason would be horrible

I live along Ferry St and am extremely concerned about the removal of mature trees outlined in Alt 1A. I am concerned that the removal of these trees would make the neighborhood less welcoming, provide no shade in summer, and destroy a food source for squirrels, who would then be incentivized to dig through the trash cans. I would encourage the city to consult with arborists and give the roots a larger area of dirt so that the sidewalk will not continue to be disrupted, but I feel strongly that as many trees should be conserved as possible.

Please actually consider pedestrian and cyclists when making this descion. Everyone I have spoken to agrees that we need a roadway that makes it seem like you are entering downtown Troy not making it easier to just speed through it.

I have lived on 1st Street for 20 years and in Troy since 1987. Without trees and green space, we are creating heat deserts in our city, where the temperatures are higher in our areas without greens spaces and lots of asphalt and cement. These treeless heat deserts create the consequences of global warming. Plan 1A, which includes cutting down the trees that provide vital protection, is not only a bad design choice, it is also unsafe for our climate. Many of us that grow vegetables downtown in our backyards have experienced the climate changes. Adding more designs for making our city hotter is a poor and unsafe design. TAP, Inc should be involved in this decision, as TAP introduced Troy to the walkable city concept and helped implement some its planning and design. Let's not make a bad choice please.

I do not support Alternative 1A. Trees are crucial to creating more pedestrian and bike friendly places. If you think cutting down this many trees is necessary to create pedestrian and bike friendly places then you are lost in the plot. There are no traffic calming devices and trees can be traffic calming as it reduces the field of view which encourages lower speeds. This proposal does not add bike lanes. It adds paint on the ground. Any bike lane that you would not feel comfortable to allow children to bike in means it is not safe. When you see women with their children biking that is how you know you have safe infrastructure. Paint does not create that safety. Protected bike lanes and other traffic calming measures are very important.

Remove more parking spaces and create safer infrastructure. It is not the responsibility of the city to subsidize parking it is create a safe environment and the city is currently failing at that. People can always park somewhere else.

As a resident living on the proposed route, I’m concerned the City’s preferred alternative, Alternative 1A, will not bring positive changes to the corridor or meet the project objectives. The absence of traffic calming elements and number of street trees slated for removal is extremely concerning. Alternative 1B and 1A Modified do a better job of creating safer streets on Congress and Ferry. Regardless of which design direction the City goes in, including traffic calming elements like curb extensions, narrower travel lanes, and preserving mature trees is crucial to improving this corridor.

As a resident living on the proposed route, I’m concerned the City’s preferred alternative, Alternative 1A, will not bring positive changes to the corridor or meet the project objectives. The absence of traffic calming elements and number of street trees slated for removal is extremely concerning. Alternative 1B and 1A Modified do a better job of creating safer streets on Congress and Ferry. Regardless of which design direction the City goes in, including traffic calming elements like curb extensions, narrower travel lanes, and preserving mature trees is crucial to improving this corridor.

I'm moving my wife and kids into Troy this November. I'm extremely concerned with the 1A suggestions, especially the 1A alternative which appears to propose bike lanes "protected" solely by road paint. Anyone who has spent time in any cities with that design should understand that this will be a HUGE problem, people on bikes WILL get hit, and cars WILL simply use that bike lane as additional parking. Your best proposal to satisfy all the needs of residents of this great city is clearly 1B!

As a resident of Downtown Troy, I’m concerned the City’s preferred alternative, Alternative 1A, will not bring positive changes to the corridor or meet the project objectives. The absence of traffic calming elements and number of street trees slated for removal is extremely concerning. Alternative 1B and 1A Modified do a better job of creating safer streets on Congress and Ferry. Regardless of which design direction the City goes in, including traffic calming elements like curb extensions, narrower travel lanes, and preserving mature trees is crucial to improving this corridor. There's already a huge lack of shaded, public green spaces in Downtown Troy. Cutting down mature trees should be the last thing we do.

I’m concerned the City’s preferred alternative, Alternative 1A, will not bring positive changes to the corridor or meet the project objectives. The absence of traffic calming elements and number of street trees slated for removal is extremely concerning. Alternative 1B and 1A Modified do a better job of creating safer streets on Congress and Ferry. Regardless of which design direction the City goes in, including traffic calming elements like curb extensions, narrower travel lanes, and preserving mature trees is crucial to improving this corridor.

I'm very disappointed in the propsed plans remove mature trees on Congress Street. I've lived in TROY for 55 years and have enjoyed watching these trees grow and mature. It would be such a step backwards to destroy them. There are alternative plans as outlined be the arborist, Jack Magai. Please preserve our greenery. Thank you. Mary Brand

The lush green tree-lined corridors of Troy are part of what make Troy such a beautiful city. You are actively making the city worse by cutting down all the trees. You already cut down the beautiful old trees in Frear Park. Cities are made to be walkable, beautiful, and for their residents. This old city is walkable and doesn't need to be a high speed concrete highway.

There are better solutions than ripping up the trees. So do better.

When I heard that the City quietly opened public comments on this project without telling anyone publicly I was completely unsurprised. As a lifelong resident of Rensselaer County, and as a Troy resident, I've come to expect only the most duplicitous and half-assed bullshit from those in charge of this City and County.

I was again unsurprised to learn the details of this current plan, which involve removing a huge number of trees, and creating a space that will only encourage even more dangerous driving in a high pedestrian traffic area.

This is another example of the City's and the County's contempt for its residents. I've come to only expect the worst and you all never fail in meeting my expectations. The people who actually live in Troy -- not just drive through it -- want tree coverage, we want a city that's actually accessible to everyone, where we don't feel like we're risking our lives walking throughout the city. It seems that those in charge of the city care only about making it more accessible and convenient for them as they drive from one of their properties to another. If you had a scrap of respect for us residents this comment period would have been publicly announced, not cravenly and quietly posted in the hopes we wouldn't see. I'd tell you all to shape up and get your shit together, but I know that's completely futile.

I’m concerned the City’s preferred alternative, Alternative 1A, will not bring positive changes to the corridor or meet the project objectives. The absence of traffic calming elements and number of street trees slated for removal is extremely concerning. Alternative 1B and 1A Modified do a better job of creating safer streets on Congress and Ferry. Regardless of which design direction the City goes in, including traffic calming elements like curb extensions, narrower travel lanes, and preserving mature trees is crucial to improving this corridor. The loss of the trees is a loss of character and beauty in the downtown.

please save Troy’s trees 🙂

Please increase traffic enforcement before ripping up Congress and Ferry. What a tragedy it would be for Troy to lose so many trees with these potential plans.

Please increase traffic enforcement before ripping up Congress and Ferry. What a tragedy it would be for Troy to lose so many trees with these potential plans.

Please increase traffic enforcement before ripping up Congress and Ferry. What a tragedy it would be for Troy to lose so many trees with these potential plans.

Please do not cut down these trees. One of the things that make Troy so nice and different from the neighboring Urban regions are its classic design, aesthetic, and walkability. Cutting trees will do great damage to the charm and feeling of downtown Troy, and it just seems unnecessary. Thank you for your consideration on this manner!

Please do not cut down trees. I understand that the sidewalks are in bad shape and some trees do need to be removed but you have gone to far in this plan. Many cities our size have found ways to keep trees and have well built sidewalks. We can have both. And we need protected bike lanes. It’s about time the city government listened to the people and not the rich developers. They don’t live in Troy, stop pandering to developers and make our city beautiful and livable.

It’s incredibly frustrating that the city of Troy would even consider cutting down this many trees when the majority of them are absolutely salvageable in term of ADA compliance. Street trees can take decades or more to mature such that they benefit a block the way these do. They provide shade for pedestrians. They drive down energy costs for nearby houses. They contribute to air quality and reduce smog. They most importantly, are already there. They beautify our city immeasurably. They represent our current generation’s legacy for future generations of Trojans. Instead you should be considering how to expand future generations of trees to deepen the canopy and consider replacement of existing trees in your total Troy tree census. If you aren’t planning for existing trees replacement, you plan ultimately for the reduction of the canopy overall.

As a resident of Second st, two blocks south of Congress St, I’m very concerned about the loss of parking! There are multiple apt buildings on Congress St with limited or NO parking. Any parking spaces lost will force people to park farther south , taking away our limited spots. Night time parking will be virtually impossible. My suggestion is to just have street cleaning one day a week with alrerante side parking 9-12 & 12-3 A Monday or Tuesday would be less dramatic for residents and businesses. The current nightly rotation for street cleaning is not and has not been done for my 25 yrs downtown. The new apt buildings on Second and Congress have no parking lot at all so those 70 apt residents will need overnight parking and this allows it to encourage people to live downtown-not discourage

As a resident of Second st, two blocks south of Congress St, I’m very concerned about the loss of parking! There are multiple apt buildings on Congress St with limited or NO parking. Any parking spaces lost will force people to park farther south , taking away our limited spots. Night time parking will be virtually impossible. My suggestion is to just have street cleaning one day a week with alrerante side parking 9-12 & 12-3 A Monday or Tuesday would be less dramatic for residents and businesses. The current nightly rotation for street cleaning is not and has not been done for my 25 yrs downtown. The new apt buildings on Second and Congress have no parking lot at all so those 70 apt residents will need overnight parking and this allows it to encourage people to live downtown-not discourage

As a resident of downtown Troy, who loves the walkability and beauty of the streets around Russell Sage Campus, including Congress and Ferry Streets, I strongly oppose the recommended Alternative 1A for this project. We need a plan that does not remove the mature trees with their canopies, provides more not less parking, provides safer bike lanes, and provides better traffic calming elements, which is not Alternative 1A.
Of particular importance to Troy residents and visitors are the tree lined streets which provide cooling shade, calming beauty, improved air quality and environmental protection from rain, sun & wind. The plans show 79 of 133 existing trees (59%) slated to be removed and replaced, but only lists 25 due to health, being overgrown or negatively affecting the sidewalk surface. As frequent pedestrian in this area, this reasoning is flawed (to be nice) as many identified for removal are healthy, stable and are not affecting the sidewalk in a way that necessitates their removal. Most trees should remain in place – certainly there is no justified reason to remove up to 79 of them along Congress and Ferry streets.

I do not support cutting down trees along congress and ferry.

I am a downtown Troy resident and I am concerned the City’s Troy’s NY 2 Corridor Improvement Project preferred alternative, Alternative 1A, will not bring positive changes to the corridor or meet the project objectives. The absence of traffic calming elements and number of street trees slated for removal is extremely concerning. As someone who lives right by Congress Street, I believe that there are other options that would serve the needs of residents like myself as well as local businesses. Alternative 1B and 1A Modified do a better job of creating safer streets on Congress and Ferry. Regardless of which design direction the City goes in, including traffic calming elements like curb extensions, narrower travel lanes, and preserving mature trees is crucial to improving this corridor and is something I am strongly in favor of.

Overall, Alternative 1A - the assumed preferred - does not follow best practice for complete streets and should not move forward with final design without significant changes. The configuration is a poor use of the existing space. Alt 1B or another alternative that protects bicyclists and maximizes parking is a better fit for this corridor.

Project Objective Comments:
The project purpose clearly emphasizes complete streets and the need to accommodate all users; however, the project objectives do not include complete streets or bicyclists. Instead the project objectives emphasize improving traffic flow and facilitating traffic operations.

Generally, the project objectives are not reflective of the public comments made during the meetings and documented in the appendix. The following should be included: Maintain and improve the urban character of this downtown corridor by prioritizing pedestrian space and tree canopy. Provide bicycle accommodations for all ages and abilities.
Additionally, any of the alternatives considered but not selected were justified by reasons not included in the project objectives, such as cost or maintenance.

Project Alternatives Comments:
SubAlt 1A was only briefly discussed despite being heavily discussed and strongly preferred over Alt 1A by those that attending public meeting #2. The design report indicates that it was considered but not preferred for various reasons. What is meant by “concerns about vehicles parking mid-street section”? The report states that this alternative would be difficult to maintain during winter months, yet winter maintenance wasn’t noted as an objective. Visibility of bicyclists being obstructed by parked vehicles was also noted. Why would this visibility be limited if parking is restricted within 20’ of a crosswalk by NYS law?

Congress Street Bridge/Ferry Street/River Street Intersection: Why weren’t other alternatives considered, such as reducing the number of turn lanes but accepting a lower level of service? Prioritizing shorter and more comfortable crosswalks over vehicle movements would be more in line with the project objective to improve overall pedestrian safety and connectivity.

Alternative 1B - Congress Street Two-way Buffered Bike Lanes: The justifications for removing this alternative from further consideration do not relate to the project objectives and are not supported by public comment or design standards or guidelines. The cost of constructing the raised curb for physical separation is noted but not justified by any numbers. As a 10 foot wide separated bicycle lane, the difficulty to maintain is also not justified. Is 10 feet sufficient room for existing plows and street sweepers as needed? Yes, traffic signals would need to be upgraded to include a separate phase and potential signal for bicyclists. Is this feasible, just more cost? How would bike signals impact the LOS at these intersections? Based on the LOS reported, it appears possible without detrimental effects to traffic. The number of conflicts is a poor justification for not selecting this alternative as conflicts with pedestrians already exist, the number of conflicts with bicycle traffic increases in Alt 1A (even though unidirectional), intersections are/will be signalized, and traffic conflicts at the alleys are minimal. References to AASHTO are noted but not specified, as are bicycle and vehicle conflicts. What AASHTO guidelines (manual and section) is this referring to? It is noted that these “would need to be addressed” - not that they could not be addressed, so isn’t this still a feasible alternative?

Alternative 1A, sub alt 1A, Alternative 1B, and Alternative 3 were all considered, as demonstrated in the public meetings, project website, and as described in section 1.3; however, only Alternative 1A is included in any further documentation, including 1.4.2 Comparison of Considered Alternatives. Why is this? This should be corrected as each alternative is feasible and was considered.

1.5 Preferred Alternative
“Only one reasonable build alternative has been identified that meets all of the project objectives the best” is incorrect. All three (four) alternatives described meet the project objectives as currently written.

Other Design Report Comments:
1.7 Public Involvement
Stakeholder meeting(s) is noted as ongoing, yet no other information regarding stakeholders is included in the document, such as meeting minutes or even a list of stakeholders. Who are the stakeholders? How have comments been solicited?

2.3.3 Level of Service Analysis
Exhibit 2-4 - is this AM or PM peak hour analysis?
Intersection of Congress Street Bridge - if a LOS B is projected in ETC+10, what is the justification for including turn lanes on three of the approaches? These turn lanes increase crossing distances for pedestrians and require compromises in the bicycle accommodations provided.
Based on the LOS analysis along Congress St, it appears that a phase for bicyclists (Alt 1B) could be introduced without significantly impacting LOS. Is this accurate?
Is the leading pedestrian interval included in this analysis as noted in 2.3.4?

2.3.4 Safety and Crash History Analysis
The improvements section states that the apparent preferred alternative “will minimize conflicts and reduce overtaking collisions by eliminating potential turns from adjacent lanes and improper lane usage.” How is this true when lane widths are being maintained or increased, little to no curb extensions provided, and the buffer and extra wide bike lanes will be accessible by vehicles for passing and parking?
Alternative 1A is the most likely to result in improper lane usage. This is arguably less safe than existing conditions by giving bicyclists a false sense of security in a space that can (and will) be violated by vehicles.
The text indicated that safety measures such as curb extensions are being added, yet I only see one on the project plans at the SE corner of Congress/5th. Where are these curb extensions included?

2.5.1 Critical Design Elements - Exhibit 2.8-A
A lane width of 11 ft Min.; 12 ft Desirable is indicated as standard, yet lane widths are as wide as 14ft are proposed. A narrower travel lane (11 ft Max.) should be prioritized to encourage lower speeds and reduce crossing distance for pedestrians.

3.1.2 State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQR)
The design report states that the City of Troy is lead agency and has determined that this project qualifies as an unlisted action. When did the City Council declare itself the lead agency and determine this? Any agenda items I have found relate to funding and list the action as Type II.
The SEQR form indicates 10 acres will be physically disturbed. Wouldn’t this make this a Type I action given it alters more than 2.5 acres within the historic district and adjacent to parkland?
Reference: 6 NYCRR Part 617. Type 1 Actions (b) / (6) / (i), (9), (10).

Plan Comments:
All sheets - A 7’ bike lane or greater is too wide to not be protected. 12’ travel lane is also too wide. On several blocks, a 5’ wide bike lane, 3’ buffer, 11’ travel lane, and two parking lanes, at least 7’ wide, could be accommodated. This would meet all standards.

TYP-01 - Typical Section - Congress and Ferry Street Mill/Fill: An 11’ lane should be used. If a bike lane is 7’ or wider, it should be protected. "Avoid 7 ft (2.1 m) or wider curbside constrained bike lanes to limit the likelihood that people will use the bike lane for a parking or travel lane; use a protected bike lane instead." NACTO 2025 3.2.4 Constrained Bike Lanes. Typical Section - 8th Street to 11th Street: This mill and fill was just completed in October 2025.

TYP-02 - Typical Section - River Street Full Depth
How is a 2% crowned roadway section blending with the 6.5% profile on Ferry Street through the intersection?

TYP-03 - Proposed Ferry Street Tunnel Section - the 12ft is labeled as a multi-use path yet everywhere else in the plans it is treated as a one-way bicycle facility. No height for this raised path is indicated.

GNP-01 - Bicyclists eastbound on Congress from Front to River are not accommodated. The corner radii on the NE corner is too large. Why isn’t it 10’ like the NW corner, especially when there are no vehicles making this movement? Are the dimensions on Congress St indicating an 8’ travel lane and 4’ shoulder? The NW corner of Congress/River would be an appropriate location for a two stage turn box if this proposal moves forward.

GNP-02 - The excessive width of the buffer and bike lane will encourage double parking or passing. Removing all of these trees (even if replaced) will significantly change the character of the corridor. Why aren’t curb extensions proposed on SW corner of 1st or SE and SW corner of 2nd or Franklin St? Parking allowed to the east of Franklin St but not the west? This seems backwards for line of sight.

GNP-04 - What is the 9.5’ lane/space? There’s no indication it is a turn lane or parking area and no conflict markings in the bike lane.

GNP-06 - This is an inappropriate use for a two stage turn box. It is placed in the through travel lane and no green signal is provided for this “approach”. This is the only intersection where green conflict markings are included through the intersection. There seems to be sufficient room to provide a bike lane between the right turn lane and through lane on the WB approach but no dimensions are provided.

GNP-06/07 - There are no dimensions provided for this section of Congress St but the typical section shows “various” for different features. Shared lane markings should be spaced every 250 ft. Why are none shown in the WB direction prior to the turn lane?

GNP-08 - station 11+18 to 15+09 is proposed as full depth reconstruction. Why isn't space being reallocated so that there are wider sidewalks and a bike lane EB? The alignment of Ferry St with the intersection does not appear to be accommodating future realignment for only two travel lanes on the north side of the bridge as noted in the design report. How can this occur without significant reconstruction? Why isn’t the SE curb ramp split (which is preferred)? Why isn’t the gore area extended to create a pedestrian refuge island and split the crossing distance? Conflict markings should not be used when its a shared road condition (eastbound approach). Why isn’t the SW corner extended to meet the “raised” path? Why are bike markings and a cross walk leading to this path, as its symbol indicated bikes in one direction only?

GNP-09A - The 1st St crosswalk is currently a raised crosswalk. Will this feature be retained? The crosswalk at 2nd should also be raised. They are also currently wider crosswalks. Will this feature also be retained? Was modifying the tunnel wing walls and widening the sidewalk to go up and over considered? Was it more or less expensive than the raised path through the tunnel? I believe it is likely less expensive and would be more comfortable to send bikes up and over rather than sending them through the tunnel. It appears the sidewalk down to 3rd along Ferry is being reconstructed but this does not continue to 3rd. Will that be replaced the full length and the wall removed? This was proposed in the Congress St Bridge Study.

GNP-10 - I can't read the buffer dimension but it appears to be 5'. By narrowing parking, travel lanes, and bike lane to minimum - parking on both sides and a 3' buffer could be maintained. Why are conflict markings shown just east of 3rd if the bus stop is being relocated? Why are conflict markings shown for so long a distance west of 4th when only one driveway is present? Has the property owner been approached about closing this driveway? There’s additional access on 4th.

GNP-11 - The parking spaces on Ferry east of 5th are either inaccessible or cause a significant hazard for bicyclists. The conflict parking around sta 35+00 is excessively long. There is only one driveway to the apartments to the south. Why is the curb cut opposite 6th Ave eliminated?

GNP-13 - It is nice to see parking protected bike lanes on 3rd; why can’t parking protection occur elsewhere? Why is a 17’ travel lane proposed rather than providing parking on both sides? On 4th, why isn’t the parking lane reduced to 8’ and the space used to provide a bike lane buffer or wider bike lane?

GNP-14 - What are the dimensions curb to curb and the proposed travel lanes?

GNP-15 - Why is the cycle track being reduced to 8’ rather than maintaining the recommended 10’? There’s room by reducing travel lanes to 11’.

GNP-16 - What is the proposed traffic control at River/Division? Stop bars are indicated on the plans but no signs. Will this be an all way stop?

Summary of Public Comments - Following the presentation at Public Meeting #2, there was a Q&A and comment period. Why aren’t notes regarding these questions, comments, and discussions included in the public engagement summary?

If the bike lanes aren’t protected, they aren’t truly bike lanes. Without proper separation, this project risks frustrating everyone involved.

Drivers will be frustrated because they’ll have to navigate around cyclists in unsafe conditions, and cyclists will be frustrated — and endangered — because unprotected lanes offer little real safety.

That said, I’m genuinely glad this project is being considered. With just a bit more attention to design and protection, it could become a far more impactful and well-received improvement for everyone who uses our streets.

O have carefully reviewed the plan selected and find the following problematic. I have had experience with all three issues in a section of Troy adjacent to my property. I live on River, one house down from Congress and traverse the area numerous times a day on foot and by car.
1. Trees. Why oh way can't we be more selective and maintain this beautiful swath of trees, uniform as they are, lining Congress. One thing not mentioned is coming down Congress in the afternoon, you are confronted with brilliant and blinding sun. It makes traffic lights almost unreadable and obscures pedestrians getting into vehicles or crossing. Remember not all pedestrians are fans of crosswalk and some if ours are gone due to construction. We also don't have pedestrian electric signs on the biggest of the intersections. With one way cross streets, a pedestrian cannot see if it is safe. The only relief from the sun glare is the curtain of trees.
2. Bike and ped lanes too wide. This will encourage speed, sloppy driving, PARKING OR STANDING and actual use of them as a shoulder lane. This occurs with the path on Front street. I cannot tell you how many times I have seen a biker or ped with a cart or stroller have to go around into the lane, subject to oncoming traffic and traffic behind. Community policing does come when called to clear the Parkers, but that's not a solution.
3. The increased speed and the bigger intersections combined have a synergistic effect. All of this is a HUGE deterrent to creating walkability, something Troy keeps touting as a reason to visit and live here.
4. You are creating a concrete highway on one of the best streets in Troy. Traversing down with a view of the city, the parks and the River is esthetically pleasing. Now we will have a permanent concrete jungle effect just like the arterial mess Albany made years ago, missing out on appreciating their waterfront in any meaningful way.

I’m concerned the City’s preferred alternative, Alternative 1A, will not bring positive changes to the corridor or meet the project objectives. The absence of traffic calming elements and number of street trees slated for removal is extremely concerning. Alternative 1B and 1A Modified do a better job of creating safer streets on Congress and Ferry. Regardless of which design direction the City goes in, including traffic calming elements like curb extensions, narrower travel lanes, and preserving mature trees is crucial to improving this corridor.

Hi,

I appreciate all the efforts of the city in modernizing this street. Looking over the proposed A plan, I see serious problems.

The main ethos here should be to maintain a CITY street rather than converting into a traffic corridor. I travel this route all the time and there is no traffic problem. We DO NOT need wider streets and less trees!!

We need pedestrian and bike friendly streets. We should do all possible to maintain wide sidewalks and easy crossing points for people on foot. We should maximize dedicated bike lanes.

If we lose trees and have wider streets, it creates a distance between downtown and the neighborhoods to the south. Please, please, please do not advance with the proposed plan!!!

Thank you in advance for your time and consideration.

I am concerned the city’s preferred alternative, Alternative 1A, will not promote the named and cited objectives of the project.

The lack of traffic calming elements will encourage speeding and a higher noise level instead of encouraging a safe urban environment where cars, pedestrians, and cyclists can all safely coexist with minimal danger.

The slated removal of street trees is both an added expense, a significant negative impact on both noise volume and increase summer heat. The existing tree species have minimal impact on sidewalk upheaval (they are a good choice) and removing 79 of 133 (59%) is unnecessary with other designs.

A wide unprotected bike lane is a vastly substandard solution that is generally avoided. It will result in illegal parking and dangerous traffic conflicts (car-car and car-bike), straining law enforcement and increasing community conflict.

The decision to utilize a wide travel lane will also result in higher speeds. This is also a more expensive design solution. More expensive does not equal better!!

The city must rethink this design to better align with the needs and feedback of the community. My teens both regularly bike in the city, and as both a driver and pedestrian I highly value traffic calming, shade trees, for a more pleasant community experience for myself and my neighbors.

As a bike and pedestrian commuter, this plan will have a daily impact on my quality of life. The trees along the Congress and Ferry St corridors are critical, irreplaceable infrastructure in downtown. The trees removed from Federal St in the early days of the administration have not been replaced, and the sun scald trying to cross that street is punishing. Please do not force that fate upon the heart of downtown, especially when there is a host of qualified professionals who can assist on this $12M+ project.

As a cyclist who commutes from the South Troy to my office downtown each day, I have been appalled by the treatment of cyclists by drivers. I expect to get menaced by a car at least once every time I hop on my bike. Without any infrastructure to signal to drivers that it is the law to share the road with cyclists, we're treated like interlopers who could be maimed or killed by the multi-ton vehicles that refuse to acknowledge our rights to the streets. This design emboldens that behavior because without a parking protected bike lane, cars will park in the bike lane as they do regularly on 1st Street, forcing cyclists now into a single car lane that is more hostile to our presence due to their perception of the cyclists "stealing" their road access.

It's unclear why the agenda is to turn every last inch of Downtown into an inhospitable Suburban Strip Mall, with every seat removed or made hostile, no shade, no functional trash services, no spaces to gather in public in comfort: just a ton of parking for the lifeless future of this city.

This plan doesn't please anyone - not the Mayor's cronies, not the hard-working taxpayers who are funding this worst-of-all-worlds desgin. As my neighbors in South Troy are organizing to rebuild the tree canopy in our neighborhood, it's such a shame our city leadership to undermine those efforts.

Please reconsider.

As a resident of the City of Troy who passes through the Ferry and Congress Street corridor almost daily either as an automobile driver, bicyclist or pedestrian, I am 100% opposed to the current Alternative 1A plan for this corridor and believe it will make the problems the city is trying to address worse.

The cutting down and removal of 59% of the trees is a lazy and not necessarily the most cost effective solution to fixing a few sidewalk issues. Without trees we create concrete jungles/heat deserts that are only going to get worse, as were witnessing temperature and humidity levels rising in Troy breaking records year after year. Trees are part of the history, culture and charm in this walkable city. We need to learn from the mistakes made on Lark Street in Albany in the early 2000's when they cut all the trees down. Lark Street, once known for it's walkable, cultural vibe completely changed, feeling void and naked, and has yet to regain its cache.

I drive down Congress from work every day. Cars and trucks are always double parked on this street, causing traffic jams, cars cutting each off trying to merge into the next lane and then back again. This will just get worse, not better under this propsed plan. Without a physical barrier for bike lane protection on the south side, the double parking will continue blocking the bike lane, making it more dangerous for bicyclists. I had originally felt incentivized to buy an electric bike to go back and forth to work with, but under this plan, a bike lane without curb protection is a disincentive. Removal of parking spaces and widening the lanes on Congress will only increase traffic speeds, making it even less safe for pedestrians. This is not a calming traffic solution.

I urge the City of Troy to reconsider plan 1B as it best meets the goals for this project.
And SAVE THE TREES! Be Bold! Be Smart!

I am extremely concerned that the City’s preferred plan, Alternative 1A, doesn’t seem likely to bring real improvements to the corridor or meet the project’s stated goals.

Most importantly to me and my neighbors, I find the number of mature street trees slated for removal especially troubling. Both Alternative 1B and 1A Modified appear to do a better job of making Congress and Ferry safer and more welcoming for everyone.

Troy is the most walkable city in the Capital Region, known for its architectural beauty, year round farmer's market, Victorian Stroll and collection of eclectic shops and restaurants. Our tree lined streets, aesthetic charm and walkability are not just an economic draw, but part of downtown Troy's identity.

The City should be focused on making it safer for bikers and pedestrians and protecting the beauty which draws so many visitors to our riverside city. Leave the trees!!!

I am deeply concerned with how this project has been executed up until this point. The lack of public visibility and engagement is jarring, why is this $17.5M project being done seemingly in the shadows? This will have major impacts on the city of Troy for generations to come. In addition, the design that the city is putting forward in the 490 page report is NOT pedestrian and cyclist friendly. The unprotected bike lane is dangerous, creating vehicle travel lanes that are 12 ft wide is not up to urban planning standard for a busy city intersection, and the lack of speed reduction measures makes me think this project is not meant to make the area a more vibrant walkable place. Also, why are are we spending $375k on cutting PERFECTLY healthy trees? I urge the Mayor's Office to rethink their selected design, or at least extend the deadline for public commentary and engagement.

I'm a resident of Troy, and am supportive of version 1B and Alternative 1A Modified in order to properly protest bike lanes. Additionally, I strongly oppose the cutting of so many trees, and recommend talking to a certified arborist before commencing work. I would recommend contacting Troy's More Trees Aboroculture: https://www.moretrees.coop/

I would like to express my disapproval of Alternative 1A as the new design for the Rt 2 corridor. The new design prioritizes drivers - often speeding and distracted - rather than vibrancy and walkability for downtown businesses and residents. Visitors come to Downtown Troy to enjoy the urban atmosphere and the city's unique walkability is a major reason why people continue to relocate to the area. Alternative 1A would severely undermine this, causing irreversible damage to the historic heart of the city.

Aside from the economic and cultural reasons against Alternative 1A, tree removal is one of the greatest mistakes a city can make when redesigning streets. Street trees provide shade in the summer, break the wind in the winter, reduce carbon dioxide levels in the air, and naturally slow traffic without ugly barriers or other man-made structures.

Alternative 1B or the Modified Alternative 1A would both be preferable options. As a downtown resident who often travels without a car between Troy and Watervliet, this decision will have a major, direct impact on me and my quality of life.

I’m concerned the City’s preferred alternative, Alternative 1A, will not bring positive changes to the corridor or meet the project objectives. The absence of traffic calming elements and number of street trees slated for removal is extremely concerning. Alternative 1B and 1A Modified do a better job of creating safer streets on Congress and Ferry. Regardless of which design direction the City goes in, including traffic calming elements like curb extensions, narrower travel lanes, and preserving mature trees is crucial to improving this corridor.

Hello! This is an exciting project! As a resident who lives near Congress and drives on it many times a week, I think it is exciting to see expanded mobility features including ADA, and bike infrastructure.

Please do replace all trees removed, and avoid removing if not necessary. It could be lovely to create a planted barrier to protect the bike lane and add even more green infrastructure. At the very least, provide removable bollards. Adding any pedestrians safety features at crossings is also important, such as curb bump-outs, the flashing crosswalk, even murals at crosswalks

As a long-resident of Downtown Troy, who lives nestled in between Congress and Ferry, there are many concerns with the 1A proposal.

Of the most major concerns: bike lanes. I currently see vehicles abuse double-parking all over Downtown Troy, causing congestion and blocking traffic. I believe that by creating an unprotected bike lane, these vehicles will most certainly abuse that as well, using the bike lane to idle and park. By utilizing the design the in 1B, installing a physical barrier between roadway and bike lane would immediately and effectively resolve the ability for vehicles to do so. Vehicles also notoriously speed through these areas (despite speed limits), having a physical barrier would also ensure the safety of bikers using these lanes.

The design of these bike lanes in the Ferry St tunnel also raise an issue that I have not yet seen mentioned- Downtown Troy has a fairly robust population of people without homes. I have long observed the areas they choose to seek shelter (elevated and covered areas - because those provide some privacy and cover from the elements). Based on the 1A design, the bike lane through the tunnel would provide the perfect place for these folks to settle, possibly creating obstacles for bikers. I want to follow that thought with this, I care deeply for the well-being of those people and this point is not meant to be hateful or negative towards them, but it is important to be aware of all potential outcomes.

Lastly, on that topic, Downtown Troy is home to many amazing large-scale community events (farmers market, Riverfest, chowder fest, pig out, rockin' on the river, etc.) - it is no secret that finding parking during these high-volume events can be difficulty, I find it likely that the bike lanes proposed in 1A would also be used by vehicles for parking during these events as well.

I am very concerned about plan 1A and what it would, and would not, provide for the city of Troy. I also think it is a terrible idea to spend taxpayer dollars to encourage people to speed through the city and leave, which is what will happen with wider lanes and fewer parking spots. The Ferry St bike lane is also a waste of money, when there are far less expensive but much more important facilities needed for cyclists - most importantly, protection for the bike lane.

I can speak from experience riding a bike in Troy - we cannot entrust our safety to the willingness of drivers to follow the rules and ask our police to enforce traffic laws that are at odds with our street design. If we want safety and to encourage following the law, we need infrastructure that makes that easier for people to do.

Please listen to your citizens and our advocates at Capital Streets and don't waste our money on this as currently planned. We aren't asking for a complete redesign, because 1A with modifications or 1B are significantly better alternatives. Just asking to spend our money on improvements that will actually make an improvement to the city of Troy instead of giving drivers reasons to leave quicker than ever.

I am deeply concerned with the City’s preferred alternative, Alternative 1A. This alternative will not bring positive changes to the corridor or meet the project objectives. The absence of traffic calming elements and number of street trees slated for removal is alarming. Alternatives 1B and 1A Modified do a better job of creating safer streets on Congress and Ferry.

Regardless of which design direction the City goes in, including traffic calming elements like curb extensions, narrower travel lanes, and preserving mature trees is crucial to improving this corridor.

Similarly, this street is more than just a “corridor.” We are a community that experiences fast cars almost hit people crossing streets and throw their trash out the car window frequently as they don’t care about our neighbors like we do. While creating more bike lanes would be helpful and appreciated, these alternative plans don’t effectively create safety for bikes to pass without curbing the speed at which vehicles move.

Instead of catering to people who only pass through here I hope you will listen to the significant number of comments from citizens OF downtown Troy. I’ve lived on 2nd street for over 10 years and I know why people love this city. It’s not because of the roads leading out of it, it’s because of the architecture, the people who live here, and yes, the TREE’s.

I just saw a Facebook post regarding an infrastructure project. I am in support of reducing the number of lanes to calm traffic. I would like to Alternative 1A which includes bike lanes, and would urge that we preserve as many city trees as possible.

I also moved to Troy because of its historical architecture, beautiful walking streets, quaint charm and community-oriented spirit. It is heartbreaking to watch this city be destroyed by all of the new, soul-less and monstrous construction which undermine what makes Troy a desirable place to live. Moving forward against public opinion on this project would be so disappointing. I greatly hope the city will rectify it's plans before it makes this incredible mistake. It would make me think twice about investing in Troy. I expect that my representatives would fight to make this city a better place for residents and local business owners, not a better city for cars. Removing beautiful old trees?! No! Elements like curb extensions, narrower travel lanes, and preserving mature trees is crucial to improving this corridor.

I’m a cyclist an a frequent visitor to Troy for entertainment and restaurants -- (and I formerly worked at Joseph's House on Ferry St.) -- and I am concerned about your plans for reconstruction along Ferry/Congress Streets for the following reasons:
1. There was not sufficient (or proper) notice when your preferred plan, Alternative 1a, was released on October 2, so people were not aware of it or able to review and comment on it - please extend the deadline!
2. There are no traffic calming features in your plan, which means cars will continue to speed through the City, making Ferry Street dangerous for pedestrians, cyclists -- and cars too.
3. Alternative 1B and 1A Modified create safer streets on Congress and Ferry. Regardless of which design direction the City goes in, including traffic calming elements like curb extensions, narrower travel lanes, and preserving mature trees is crucial to improving this corridor.
4. Finally, bike lanes that are not protected almost never increase the number of cyclists that ride on a road because the large majority of cyclists do not feel safe riding in, or so close to, traffic. Bike lanes can be protected in low cost and quick ways, such as bollards, portable curbs, or aardvark barriers

Thank you, and please reconsider your plan to make Troy an even more attractive place than it already is!

Best,

Dennis Gaffney

The intentions are good, but I have a fee concerns:

Design 1A has far too wide bike lanes that cars will just use to park, and puts cyclists into the tunnel - super dangerous. Design proposal 1B is a far better solution. Protected bike lines are the only ones that actually provide safety to cyclists. And putting the bike lane in the tunnel seems ludicrously expensive.

Please rethink the removal of so many trees. There is no need to pull over 50 mature trees out! And the budget to do that is… $397,000?? The most expensive tree removal I’ve ever heard of.

Excited that ADA accessibility and cycle lanes are on the docket - please spend a little more focus on making sure it really works, and all the money will be spent on a success! Thank you.

As someone who is currently looking to move to downtown Troy after spending many years working and socializing in the area, I would like to express my dismay re: the city’s chosen Alternative 1A. I love Troy for its walkable downtown and street scape, including mature trees. The downtown neighborhood deserves to remain just that and not a busy highway to somewhere else! Keep Troy a viable place to live for its residents, current and future!

Having tree lined streets is a big part of what makes downtown Troy a charming, desirable area. Please don’t get rid of more trees!

I am an avid biker and strongly disagree with the city of Troy’s choice of development for Congress Street. Choice 1B or 1A modified would be better for the city and its residents and businesses. These choices would encourage usage and better achieve safety and biking in the city. In fact I attended the hearings and I did not hear testimony from one person or business speak in favor of the city of Troy’s choice. As a owner and resident of downtown Troy living on 1st Street, I have a deep concern about the proposed mass cutting of the mature trees along Sage park and Congress Street. These trees provide a beauty that is rare in downtown cities. Not only are they important to residents but also to visitors of the farmers market and to Sage College. People always comment on their beauty. The cutting of these mature trees will cause generational change and will take decades to recover, if ever! For example, Lark Street in Albany never recovered from its devastating removal, business traffic declined and its beauty never regained. Mature trees cool the areas they shade by an average of 10 degrees and make the streets more bearable in the warmer months.
THIS IS A HUGE MISTAKE! As a former business owner in the city of Albany I know the devastating impact of the cutting of mature trees en mass. Please reconsider , there are better options. I am willing to come in and talk on the subject . Please feel free to contact me.
Keith Pickard

As a downtown Troy resident, I strongly support option 1B. Plan 1A undermines the very qualities that make this area special — its walkability, bike-friendliness, and welcoming streetscape — all of which are core reasons I chose to live here. Fewer trees, reduced parking, and less safe routes for pedestrians and cyclists — who is Plan 1A really serving? Tourists passing through? Creighton Manning? Or is this another quid pro quo between the administration and their preferred contractors?

Plan 1A does nothing to strengthen our local economy or support the people who actually live here. I’ll vote against anyone who supports it, because it’s clear they’re not representing downtown residents.

Combined with the sudden reversal of the music ordinance — which local businesses already paid for and was mutually agreed upon — the “new” City Hall being forced into a renovated historic building, and now this push for Plan 1A despite community opposition, it’s becoming a troubling pattern. City leadership appears more focused on appeasing certain partners than listening to the voices of Troy’s residents and small business owners.

As a bicyclist and resident of Troy, I am excited with the prospect of a dedicated bicycle lane. However, I share the concern as already expressed by other residents about the lack of protection of the bicyclists in such a lane in proposal 1A. Please consider some of the alternatives, such as 1B.

Also, please try to keep as many trees as possible; their immense value to urban communities, from providing beauty and shade, has been well documented.

Thank you!

As someone that drives this route daily, I have concerns about the design of alternative 1A, specifically related to the unprotected bike lanes and the apparent reduction in parking spaces. I also have major concerns related to the potential removal of several of the trees along this route, as they provide character and much needed shade and cooling effects in a warming climate. The use of nature based solutions such as canopy trees to mitigate the urban heat island effect offers several benefits to the community. I highly encourage reconsidering this aspect of the proposal.

Thank you in advance for your time and consideration.

I am concerned the city’s preferred alternative, Alternative 1A, will not promote the named and cited objectives of the project.

The lack of traffic calming elements will encourage speeding and a higher noise level instead of encouraging a safe urban environment where cars, pedestrians, and cyclists can all safely coexist with minimal danger.

The slated removal of street trees is both an added expense, a significant negative impact on both noise volume and increase summer heat. The existing tree species have minimal impact on sidewalk upheaval (they are a good choice) and removing 79 of 133 (59%) is unnecessary with other designs.

A wide unprotected bike lane is a vastly substandard solution that is generally avoided. It will result in illegal parking and dangerous traffic conflicts (car-car and car-bike), straining law enforcement and increasing community conflict.

The decision to utilize a wide travel lane will also result in higher speeds. This is also a more expensive design solution. More expensive does not equal better!!

The city must rethink this design to better align with the needs and feedback of the community. My teens both regularly bike in the city, and as both a driver and pedestrian I highly value traffic calming, shade trees, for a more pleasant community experience for myself and my neighbors.

I do not think this is the best course of action. As someone that goes to RPI I would appreciate a great reconsideration of the proposed 1A plan. For example, the trees do not need to be cut down or at the bare minimum, must be assessed independently and decided what to do with. Trees provide lots of cover and make the streets of Troy much prettier. It would be a shame to lose some of its beauty. Additionally making the lanes wider and cutting parking does not encourage biking or walking and does the opposite quite frankly. It would make it more dangerous with faster speeds from cars for people walking and biking. Please reconsider before going through with the plan. Thank you.

I work in Troy and have many friends there. I'm concerned over the lack of safety in regards to larger lanes which will result in faster driving, and unprotected bike lanes. I'm also concerned over the loss of mature trees. Please reconsider.

I am against the City’s “preferred alternative” (Alternative 1A)

I am mostly outraged by the excessive removal of mature trees.

This is a mistake that will take DECADES to fix. Tree lined streets are distinct luxury of living in downtown Troy.

Moreover, this seems to be a plan that prioritizes cars over people. If it was DOT project, fine. But it is supposed to be a city of Troy project.

Please reconsider the plans and DO NOT cut down all those trees .

As a Troy resident of 7 years, I am disappointed in the City’s selection of Alternative 1A. I do not believe this option will bring positive changes to the corridor or meet the project objectives.

Many of the trees selected for removal in this option are not currently causing problems and their removal would offer no benefit. Additionally, as an avid pedestrian and bicyclist, I am concerned about the lack of traffic calming elements. The walkability of Troy is one of the reasons I have stayed in this area. However, I have had a number of close calls both crossing the street and while riding my bike, and believe these traffic calming elements are important to ensure safe access to downtown Troy's many businesses.

After reviewing all of the options, it is clear that Alternative 1B and 1A Modified do a better job of creating safer streets on Congress and Ferry. I strongly encourage the city to revisit these options.

As a resident of the Fourth Street Osgood neighborhood I feel like this project will make it more difficult for me to do the things I enjoy about Troy, namely being able to walk or bike to downtown to enjoy the restaurants, bars, and farmer’s market and other friends who live downtown. Route 2 will become an annoying and dangerous impediment to my ability to get around and do what I like. I would prefer there alternatives 1B and 1C over the proposal.

I’m concerned the City’s preferred alternative, Alternative 1A, will not bring positive changes to the corridor or meet the project objectives. The absence of traffic calming elements and number of street trees slated for removal is extremely concerning. Alternative 1B and 1A Modified do a better job of creating safer streets on Congress and Ferry. Regardless of which design direction the City goes in, including traffic calming elements like curb extensions, narrower travel lanes, and preserving mature trees is crucial to improving this corridor.

I am opposed to the city's preferred alternative 1A proposal and feel that the details of the plan would undermine many of the improvements that could come from the other proposed plans. The project need statement accurately reflects many of my concerns with the current design of Congress St and Ferry St, but the preferred alternative does not seem to adequately address those concerns.

In particular, the lack of bike lane curb protection as shown in alternative 1B or at minimum bike lane parking protection is unacceptable. I can attest that illegal parking and stopping on the south side of Congress St is rampant and I am confident that painting in a bike lane will in no way deter cars from stopping or parking there. Also, the extremely common speeding of drivers coming down the hill from Congress and 8th could be improved or at least made less threatening to pedestrians and bikers by the lane narrowing and curb protection proposed by other plans.

Also, the lack of traffic pattern changes to the intersection of Congress and 8th is very frustrating. Since crossing pedestrians share the light cycle with cars, pedestrians need to contend with drivers turning right from Congress onto 8th or from 8th onto Congress at dangerous speed and with little to no awareness of concern for pedestrians in the crosswalk. I have been nearly struck by cars at this intersection numerous times despite waiting for the crosswalk signals. I would very much appreciate some thought for the safety of that intersection.

Finally, I am concerned by the proposed removal of trees. While I understand that some trees have caused sidewalk heaving and that those trees must be removed to improve accessibility, I would hate for the wonderful tree cover along Congress St to be dramatically worsened.

I am a resident of Congress St who has walked and biked along the affected streets daily for years. Improvements are needed and welcomed to these streets, but Alternative 1B and 1A Modified do a much better job of creating those improvements. I think the chosen 1A design would make some of the problems identified by the project need statement worse.

I’m concerned the City’s preferred alternative, Alternative 1A, will not bring positive changes to the corridor or meet the project objectives. The absence of traffic calming elements and number of street trees slated for removal is extremely concerning. Alternative 1B and 1A Modified do a better job of creating safer streets on Congress and Ferry. Regardless of which design direction the City goes in, including traffic calming elements like curb extensions, narrower travel lanes, and preserving mature trees is crucial to improving this corridor.

Don’t take away the trees!!
One of the best things about living in the northeast is that the cities weren’t made for cars. Troy is the most walkable city I’ve ever been in. Don’t encourage cars!!

I live downtown. Over the past ten years, traffic and the need for parking has increased. It is difficult to actually turn onto such streets as Washington in the hybrids that many people have now. Regardless of the plan selected, please know that in the past, when bollards were placed to mark bike lanes, cars were driving in the bike lanes. Without trees, you are making more heat deserts here, making it hotter than it needs to be. It is nearly impossible to exit any of the alleys, because vehicles are parked to the edge of the curb. There is need for improvement here.

I live downtown. Over the past ten years, traffic and the need for parking has increased. It is difficult to actually turn onto such streets as Washington in the hybrids that many people have now. Regardless of the plan selected, please know that in the past, when bollards were placed to mark bike lanes, cars were driving in the bike lanes. Without trees, you are making more heat deserts here, making it hotter than it needs to be. It is nearly impossible to exit any of the alleys, because vehicles are parked to the edge of the curb. There is need for improvement here.

I am against the city’s preferred alternative 1A because it prioritizes vehicles traveling through Troy over the people who actually live there. Removal of trees to make more room for speeding cars is the exact opposite of beautification, it would be a major blow to one of the most charming areas of Troy.

I do not approve of the city's plans to move forward with "Alternative 1A." Other alternatives not only better achieve the project's goals, but are far less destructive to the environment and scenery that make downtown Troy a beautiful place. Alternatives 1B and 1A modified are much better options that don't involve removing almost 80 trees, dangerous design, and allowing for dangerous speeding in pedestrian-heavy zones.

I moved to Troy because of its scenic charm and community-oriented spirit. It is terrible to see projects like this, which undermine what makes Troy great, being quietly moved forward against public opinion. I greatly hope the city will rectify it's plans before it makes this incredible mistake.

I am writing to express my opposition to the City’s “preferred alternative” (Alternative 1A) for the Corridor Improvement Project. I believe that Alternative 1B and Alternative 1A Modified were safer, less destructive, and reduced speeding car traffic through downtown Troy. The environmental and social impact of removing
79 trees -- including mature trees -- that can mitigate the heat island effect, is unacceptable.

I am deeply saddened by the plans for the detrimental plans for the "corridor improvement project" that decimates the beauty and safety of downtown Troy. The city of Troy is *not* just a "corridor" for cars to speed through. The removal of 79 (!!!!) street trees is completely unacceptable—this is not developement or progress! This is an echo of the horrible 1960s and 1970s infastructure projects around the country which notoriously destroyed communites, parks, and the beauty of many older cities. Do we want the future legacy of Troy's city government and council in 2025 to be the destruction of its heritage and beauty with this project?

Furthermore, I am opposed to the loss of on-street parking (a net loss of 64 parking spaces). Again, our city is NOT just a corridor to be driven through!! It is a place that people LIVE, work, make art, ride bikes, have small businesses, attend live music, and go to restaurants, all of which are the heart of its economic and cultural life. We need to be able to park in our own city!

Please do not turn our lovely city into yet another highway cleverly disguised as an "corridor." We are lagging behind other cities that have, instead, *decreased* traffic in their downtowns to make it a more desirable and safe place for residents and visitors. I biked in Brooklyn for 8 years, and routinely find that Troy is *less safe* because the infrastructure does not protect bikers and drivers don't respect small lanes that are not substantial enough. We need *protected* bike lanes and safe places to walk, to take small children, and not be worried about speeding cars.

Simply put, vehicles and traffic are hostile to what makes Troy such an exceptional city. Troy remains one of the only centralized and truly walkable cities in the Capital Region that has not been carved into pieces by major thoroughfares inhibiting foot traffic from one neighborhood to another. Reducing lane counts and adding bike lanes is a step in the right direction, without a doubt, but it's critical to ensure the remaining traffic lanes are sized and designed with the residents and visitors of this city, not those looking to pass through.

Please make sure that the final plan includes protected (physically separated) bike lanes. Numerous studies have shown that protected bike lanes are a necessary ingrediant in increasing bicycle ridership and in keeping cyclists safe. They also have a positive economic impact:

https://www.peopleforbikes.org/statistics/economic-benefits
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S000145752200104X

I moved to Troy in 2019 for university at RPI, have stayed in Troy for 4 years, and continue to work in Troy today. I frequently walk along Congress and Ferry street on a almost daily basis. Upon reviewing the proposal I have concerns for proposal Alternative 1A as a pedestrian, and as a driver through these corridors. I do not recommend proposal Alternative 1A under any circumstances.

Alternative 1A lacks traffic calming elements on streets that either already has rampant speeding by commuters or has severe parking violations (parking within a travel lane), and calls for removal of 64 (45%) parking spaces (approximately 140 spaces now, down to 76), all to cater to the commuter. The City of Troy should not change itself to cater to the commuter that won't think twice about the city they are driving through, or the residents and workers they are putting at risk by excessive speeding and parking violations.

Alternative 1A calls for the removal of 79 (59%) trees. While some trees do need replacement due to accessibility issues, the fact that over 50% of trees will be removed by this proposal is unacceptable by any resident or worker with a care for the City of Troy. The lack of any proposed replacement of these trees while allocating $327,000 for “Landscaping” without any detail is a gross misallocation of resources of project funds and at best should be reduced, if not omitted entirely. It is my personal belief that humans need nature, not concrete, in their lives. Trees add so much to that, as any major city (I.E. Boston, New York City) is finding by introducing more trees and parks to their streets.

While the introduction of a bicycle lane is to be commended, it can't be a thoughtless inclusion, which Alternative 1A does. It only introduces areas for cars to park within a bike lane instead of using actual parking spaces, a problem Congress street in particular already has. The lack of a protected bicycle lane is also of grave noting, that with the wider lane for traffic will only cause distress for any bicyclists with fast moving, uncaring, traffic flying past them and any pedestrians trying to cross the street.

At best Alternative 1A is under-designed for residents of Troy and caters to the commuter, instead of giving drivers reasons to stop in the city, this gives them more opportunities to fly past and leave the City of Troy in the rear-view mirror. The lack of care for bicycle lanes, bicyclists, nature, or pedestrians indicates this greatly. I do not recommend proposal 1A Alternative under any circumstances.

I'm a resident of South Central Troy. I walk to downtown daily and occasionally drive there. I'm glad there is an intention to improve the streetscape in the area. However, I have some concerns about the Mayor and the City's preferred plan, Alternative 1A, because there aren't enough traffic calming elements -- in my opinion, the goal should be to reduce car traffic to the downtown area, and encourage foot traffic and bicycling. Troy does a good job of providing parking so it's not necessary to widen streets to accommodate more cars. I also have concerns about tree removal, and lack of curb extensions for safety. I encourage the City to select Alternative 1B or 1A Modified.

I’m concerned the City’s preferred alternative, Alternative 1A, will not bring positive changes to the corridor or meet the project objectives. The absence of traffic calming elements and number of street trees slated for removal is extremely concerning. Alternative 1B and 1A Modified do a better job of creating safer streets on Congress and Ferry. Regardless of which design direction the City goes in, including traffic calming elements like curb extensions, narrower travel lanes, and preserving mature trees is crucial to improving this corridor.

As a frequent visitor to Troy, I am disappointed to see the City going ahead with Alternative 1A. I strongly support either 1B or a modified version 1A; please reconsider the current proposal. Widening the lanes with little effort to improve walkability, cycling, transit access, and even a loss of parking benefits absolutely no one. This will only increase speeding and make Troy streets more dangerous, while removing the current canopy will make Troy less comfortable to walk through (lack of shade) and hurt its beauty.

The selection of alternative A1 is disappointing as it is the worst of the options presented, and the one with the least amount of public support. The removal of mature street trees is concerning, as is the loss of parking and the lack of a protected bike lanes. Wider lanes will result in faster cars combine with a lack of pedestrian and cycle protection.

The project need statement accurately diagnoses the issues, but the proposed solution does little to mitigate or correct for those challenges. The City will have squandered this opportunity if it proceeds with A-1 and will have created additional new conflicts between the different users of Congress and ferry.

Please listen to our residents and choose 1-B for one that supports complete streets for all users typers and meets the objectives of the project.

I’m concerned the City’s preferred alternative, Alternative 1A, will not bring positive changes to the corridor or meet the project objectives. The absence of traffic calming elements and number of street trees slated for removal is extremely concerning. Alternative 1B and 1A Modified do a better job of creating safer streets on Congress and Ferry. Regardless of which design direction the City goes in, including traffic calming elements like curb extensions, narrower travel lanes, and preserving mature trees is crucial to improving this corridor.

I moved to Troy 2 years ago due to its community, walkability, small businesses, and proximity to nature. All my peers and loved ones here agree. Proceeding with The City’s design, “Alternative 1A”, we're losing trees, complicating parking, and putting pedestrians and bikers more at risk. Considering folks often double-park in this area already where there IS car parking, I totally do not believe these unprotected bike lanes will be respected by drivers. These changes encourage speeding, when we need safer drivers in Troy, not faster drivers passing through with no regard to the local community. Even if we only care about profit - how are passers-through encouraged to stop in Troy and spend money at our small businesses if we convert these streets to be more highway-like and less neighborhood friendly? I am concerned by the lack of safety and considerations towards actual Troy residents with this decision.

Today I live in Albany but travel to Troy 1-2 times per week, usually by car, and usually via the Congress St Bridge onto Ferry and out via Congress. Until 2024, I lived in Troy on Third just off Ferry St, so I know the corridor well.

I’m concerned by the City’s preferred alternative for this project, Alternative 1A, will not bring positive changes to the corridor or meet the project objectives. The absence of traffic calming elements and number of street trees slated for removal is extremely concerning. Those trees are beautiful and improve the QoL for those that live in the area. Without them, the problems that persist there (e.g. drug use and homelessness) will be even more on display, for residents and visitors alike. While the bike lane is an amazing addition, its current design and realities of the corridor leave the door wide open for misuse and becoming obstructed by parking. These leads to a result that is even more dangerous than what is there today - as the bike lane creates both induced demand and a false sense of security for cyclists to use the space. A blocked lane however forces them to weave in and out of traffic, WITH a blind spot and into speeding truck traffic, no less. The bike lane also gives drivers creates an expectation that bicyclists will not be in the car lanes, so they will not be looking out for them.

Alternative 1B and 1A Modified do a better job of creating safer streets on Congress and Ferry. Regardless of which design direction the City goes in, including traffic calming elements like curb extensions, narrower travel lanes, and preserving mature trees is crucial to improving this corridor.

I'd hope that with and investment of $17.5 million, the city not squander the opportunity to take the right action that creates clear positive outcomes for all.

I would like to express my concerns for the chosen design of 1A. Without a protected bike line, many motorists will park “just for a second” in the striped bike lane making it unusable and dangerous for cyclists. I also think the idea of having the bike lane go through the Ferry St tunnel should be re-thought. It is costly & not very bike friendly in terms of the grade, safety, or usability. Lastly, as a pedestrian, I question the widening of lanes, since cars will be driving faster in the corridor. And I oppose the changes to make the turning radii at corners more car friendly (faster turns) and less pedestrian friendly (wider crossing distances). I am a resident of Troy who walks, bikes, and drives through this area almost daily. Please re-consider 1A & instead chose 1B.

I oppose alternative 1A. It seems to be a large price tag on a poor design. Updates are not necessarily improvements. Please consider 1B and generally options that are conducive to a walkable multimodal downtown space.

I’m concerned the City’s preferred alternative, Alternative 1A, will not bring positive changes to the corridor or meet the project objectives. The absence of traffic calming elements and number of street trees slated for removal is extremely concerning. Alternative 1B and 1A Modified do a better job of creating safer streets on Congress and Ferry. Regardless of which design direction the City goes in, including traffic calming elements like curb extensions, narrower travel lanes, and preserving mature trees is crucial to improving this corridor.

The draft design report fails to meet the stated project purpose, need, and objectives. The impact it could have on Downtown Troy’s environment and economy is questionable. The project team excluded or ignored much of the public feedback it received, delivering a plan that lacks meaningful Complete Streets improvements and contains numerous design flaws. This design, with a price tag exceeding $17.5 million for construction, is reminiscent of mistakes made during the urban renewal era. The project should be redesigned to align with its stated goals and incorporate community input.

It is extremely disappointing to see Creighton Manning and the City of Troy disregard public feedback and failure to engage residents meaningfully. In my conversations with staff at government agencies, institutional leaders, business owners, and community members reveal a consistent theme: most people know little to nothing about the project, its impacts, or the project team’s intent to advance it in this direction.

The public engagement summary in the draft design report is missing several submitted comments, including written input I personally submitted. There is no summary of remarks from either of the two public informational meetings. At the first meeting (7/30/24), the public was not permitted to ask questions or comment. Although the meeting was noticed in the newspaper, the City only promoted it via other channels about 28 hours in advance, limiting attendance and awareness. At the second meeting (10/9/24), many attendees expressed clear opposition to Alternative 1A— this feedback entirely absent from the report.
The report also contains misleading claims about two of the most harmful components of the project.
On-Street Parking: There are over 100 existing parking spaces on the corridor today. The report’s plans show 76 spaces. Alternative 1A will clearly result in a reduction of parking, and despite this reduction, the report falsely claims an increase of 14 spaces. Alternative 1B would result in a smaller net loss.

Tree Removal: The plans show 79 of 133 existing trees (59%) slated to be removed and replaced, including 17 mature honeylocusts along Congress between 1st and 2nd Streets. The report states “project activities will include the removal of approximately 25 trees due to their health or being overgrown and negatively affecting the sidewalk surface." Yet the plans show removal and replacement of 79 trees. Section 3.2.16.1 describes the corridor as "scattered trees/shrub plantings" despite the corridor having one of the most prominent canopies in the city. Many slated for removal are healthy and stable, with little to no sidewalk disturbances (where beveling or repairs may be an option).

Despite the project’s stated purpose “to rehabilitate Congress and Ferry Streets using Complete Streets principles,” Creighton Manning’s design noticeably lacks complete streets improvements. Instead the plans show 12-foot travel lanes, no curb extensions, and only unprotected bike lanes—contradicting CRTC’s Complete Streets Design Guide. The Design Guide specifically calls out wide lanes, "In cases where there are wide travel lanes (12 feet or greater), a lane diet should be considered to narrow the lanes to 11 or 10 feet." The guide also calls for protected bike lanes on streets with speeds above 25 mph or AADT over 6,000 vehicles per day. Ignoring these guidelines will lead to higher vehicle speeds, more serious crashes, and greater risk for vulnerable users.

On top of these negative overarching design features, Creighton Manning’s plans include several dangerous details:
At Ferry Street and 8th (GNP-06), a two-stage left-turn box is incorrectly placed in the travel lane, and a bump-out forces cyclists into traffic despite ample width for safer design.

The southbound lane on River Street (GNP-01) includes an unclear “bus bike only” in-lane stop, showing no space for other vehicles to navigate the area

GNP-11 shows a 7.4 ft parking lane, 13 ft travel lane, 5 ft buffer, 8 ft bike lane, and 7.6 ft parking lane on Ferry, forcing drivers to cross 13 ft of buffer and bike lane to park. This design is unprecedented and benefits no one and creates more conflict, while ignoring obvious, sound engineering practices.

Multiple community members also spoke in opposition to requiring eastbound bike traffic to use the Ferry St tunnel, due to concerns about safety and isolation, noise, and grade change. The project team was asked to include an at-grade bicycle route– something also called for in the project purpose (1.1.2) "...establish at-grade pedestrian and bicycle connections, and create gateway into the City." The plan’s (TYP-03) elevated 12 ft wide bike lane, buffer, and guard rail may reduce some of the negative experiences of speeding traffic nearby, but do little to address community concerns and will be extremely expensive to build and maintain. This could be the most expensive bike lane (per linear foot) in Capital Region history. This is an extremely strange investment considering the reasonable alternatives available and clear public comments asking for other alternatives to be explored
This plan attempts to bring suburban design into Downtown Troy, while disregarding our community’s needs. It introduces unnecessary hazards and veers from the project’s purpose, need, and objectives. It should be revised to be a responsible use of taxpayer funds, reflect Complete Streets guidance, and bring clear, positive impacts to Downtown Troy.

-James Rath, Troy resident and Executive Director of Capital Streets

Upon seeing the sudden Corridor Improvement Project update and reading through the section of the report concerning the project's purpose, need and objectives, I have some thoughts. It's admitted in the report that the infrastructure for pedestrians are abysmal and that removing some of the mature growth trees will aid sidewalk quality. I disagree, and think as much effort to save trees along the corridor should be exercised. While we need to make things safer for pedestrians and cyclists, we also owe it to them AND our environment to keep what nature we have left. It's underestimated how a seemingly simple and benign thing like trees - especially larger, mature growth trees that take decades to grow - aid mental health and even encourage visitors to the area by injecting the vibrancy of nature back into a dull city area. What would truly help our sidewalk quality is if we put resources towards upkeeping them and replacing them instead of neglecting them like we do most of our surrounding city areas. Providing protected pedestrian lanes throughout, and leaning into alternatives like 1B are the true keys to safety in the area. Thank you for your consideration.

As a Troy resident and bicycle commuter to and from wok in Albany, I would very much like to see option 1B be implemented. It is the safest proposed option for all users of the corridor, especially pedestrians and cyclists. I understand that it may be the more expensive option, but shouldn't the safety and comfort of the corridor's users be top priority?

Concerning tree removal along the corridor: I would highly encourage keeping as many trees as possible. The impact of an urban canopy cannot be overstated. Troy's Community Forest Management Plan published in 2019 by PlanIt Geo states that Troy's tree canopy provides both social and economic benefits to the community, including but not limited to lowering energy usage during warm months for cooling, decreased crime, and storm runoff mitigation. Trees take a long time to grow, and removal of established mature trees would be a major blow to the community, as those benefits the now present trees provide would also be eliminated. In a world with a rapidly changing climate, I do not believe Troy can afford to lose these important pieces of infrastructure. I encourage the City to take this request into careful consideration.

This comment is for the proposed Congress and Ferry Street Improvements project. I think that 1B is clearly better in terms of bicycle and foot pedestrian safety. In either case though (1B and 1A) I think it is equally if not more important to provide protected pedestrian lanes across both the Ferry Street and the Green Island Bridges. Those are the toughest and most dangerous spots for pedestrians to cross and I don't think we need the full four vehicle lanes across these bridges. We need to connect Troy to the Empire State Trail as soon as possible! Thank you, Weston Davey