CARMEL, NY – Last week, Putnam County Executive Kevin Byrne, along with representatives from the Department of Public Works, hosted a public forum to discuss the upcoming Sprout Brook Road Construction Project in Philipstown. Held at the Continental Village Clubhouse, the forum provided an opportunity for residents to learn more about the project and share their thoughts and concerns. Approximately 40 residents attended the session, including members of the Park District Advisory Board.

The project will replace the aging bridge on Sprout Brook Road that crosses over Canopus Creek. The structure, which has been flagged in the past due to its deteriorated condition, will be replaced with a new 28-foot-wide pre-cast concrete bridge designed to improve safety and hydraulic alignment. The $3.14 million project is primarily funded by the Federal Highway Administration (95%), with the remaining 5% covered locally. The new bridge will include two 10-foot-wide travel lanes and two 5-foot-wide shoulders to enhance vehicular connectivity for local residents.

“We are committed to ensuring the safety and reliability of our county’s infrastructure,” said County Executive Kevin Byrne. “This bridge has served its purpose for decades, but its current condition underscores the urgency for a replacement. We recognize this is going to be an inconvenience for residents during construction and we appreciate everyone’s understanding. This forum was an excellent opportunity for us to engage with the community, listen to concerns, and respond to questions. Projects like this reflect our focus on collaboration and accountability, and I thank everyone who attended for their valuable input.”

During the forum, residents raised questions about the project timeline, environmental impacts, and pedestrian safety. Representatives from the Department of Public Works outlined the project’s scope and responded to residents’ concerns, while also highlighting the economic benefits of securing federal funding to cover the majority of the costs. Additional highlights included discussion about the importance of communication with other affected nearby municipalities such as school districts, towns, as well as neighboring Westchester County.

Legislator Nancy Montgomery, who represents the area, shared her appreciation for the forum that she’s advocated for multiple years in order to increase transparency and community engagement. “This project is critical for the safety and accessibility of the residents in this part of Philipstown,” said Montgomery. “I appreciate the County Executive and DPW taking the time to meet with the community, explain the project in detail, and address questions head-on. It’s this kind of open dialogue that strengthens trust and helps us move forward together.”

Construction is expected to begin early spring of this year. Additional details about the project, scope, and schedule, as well as updates, can be found on the Putnam County Department of Public Works’ Projects website at https://putnamcountyny.gov/public-works/projects