New Sidewalk on Cragmere Road Completed Following Years of Advocacy, Accidents, and Multi-Agency Collaboration

A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held Friday to mark the official completion of a long-awaited sidewalk project on Cragmere Road, in front of 31 Cragmere Road in Suffern. The new sidewalk addresses long-standing safety concerns raised by local residents and follows years of coordinated efforts between the Town of Ramapo, the Village of Airmont, and the Village of Suffern—culminating in a significant infrastructure improvement for the community.

Public concern began to grow after a series of serious accidents on the narrow stretch of Cragmere Road, including a fatality in 2020, another major incident in 2022, and a third in early 2025. A petition campaign eventually garnered 230 signatures, which were submitted to elected officials in Ramapo, Airmont, and Suffern. Despite early delays—particularly from the Village of Airmont—momentum began building in mid-2024 when residents called for sidewalks on Cragmere Road and Town of Ramapo officials responded.

On July 13, 2024, officials convened to address safety concerns on Cragmere Road, and just weeks later, the Village of Airmont approved new crosswalks as part of its initial safety improvement plan.

The turning point came when Ramapo Supervisor Michael Specht stepped in to lead the initiative. After both Airmont and Suffern cited budgetary constraints, Specht directed the Town of Ramapo to fund the feasibility survey, which ultimately paved the way for full construction. Ramapo absorbed the entire cost of the sidewalk project, ensuring cooperation across municipal lines.

In April 2025, the Town of Ramapo and Village of Airmont formally took action to improve safety on Cragmere Road. Additionally, the Village of Airmont is now working to remove a retaining wall damaged during a vehicle overturn accident on April 3, 2025.

The newly installed sidewalk is already proving impactful, especially for those walking from nearby hospitals to local shuls on Shabbos. Many community members have shared that the improved pedestrian safety is influencing their decision to choose Good Samaritan Hospital due to the safer route available.

Friday’s ribbon-cutting ceremony not only celebrated a critical infrastructure upgrade but also reflected the power of grassroots advocacy and intergovernmental collaboration. Special recognition was given to Supervisor Michael Specht for leading the effort, and to Senator Bill Weber, Congressman Mike Lawler’s office including senior advisor Rafi Silberberg, whose collective support was instrumental in navigating zoning, funding, and intergovernmental coordination.