Work has been completed on a $11.4 million project to redesign the intersection of State Route 376 and Hooker Avenue in the Town of Poughkeepsie, Dutchess County. The New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) has replaced the existing intersection with a single-lane roundabout aimed at improving safety and traffic flow for motorists and pedestrians. The project includes native landscaping, new crosswalks, sidewalks, and pedestrian accommodations to provide better access to nearby locations such as Vassar College, Vassar Farms, and the Arlington business district.
Governor Kathy Hochul stated, “New York State continues to work in partnership with local communities to build back our infrastructure in ways that promote improved quality of life and continued economic growth. Thanks to this new roundabout on State Route 376, students and faculty will have a safer way of getting to class at Vassar College and local residents and visitors will experience fewer hassles as they drive, bike, walk or ride public transit in the area.”
NYSDOT Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez added, “This project is a testament to Governor Hochul’s commitment to invest in infrastructure that safely connects communities and meets their needs. By working with and listening to the community, we created a project that transformed a congested Dutchess County intersection into a flowing roundabout that reduces traffic conflicts, improves safety and provides better pedestrian and bike access, ensuring easier travel for students, local residents and visitors alike as they go about their busy days.”
Input from Vassar College officials and other stakeholders was incorporated into the design process. The resulting roundabout is intended to support a cleaner transportation system while accommodating various users including pedestrians, cyclists, public transit riders, and individuals with disabilities. Improved access is now available for college pedestrian paths, faculty housing, and the Vassar Farm driveway.
Construction began in spring 2024. As part of the project scope, 59 native trees and over 600 perennial plants were planted throughout the site including within the roundabout’s center island. Decorative lighting was also installed for user assistance and aesthetics.
Roundabouts are designed for greater safety by reducing conflict points found at traditional intersections. Traffic generally moves more smoothly through roundabouts due to continuous flow which can reduce congestion and commute times. Collisions tend to be less severe because vehicles travel at lower speeds through these structures. Roundabouts also remove the need for electric-powered traffic signals.
Additional resources about roundabouts are available from NYSDOT online at www.dot.ny.gov/main/roundabouts along with brochures; an instructional video can be found at driving roundabouts.
State Senator Robert Rolison commented: “This project is a major win for the Town of Poughkeepsie and the Arlington business district. This new roundabout not only makes these busy roads safer for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians, but has improved travel across Dutchess County, to one of our higher education institutions, ecological preserves and many small businesses. Investments like this make Dutchess County better for everyone.”
County Executive Sue Serino said: “This roundabout project represents a significant improvement over the previous intersection, enhancing traffic flow, vehicle and pedestrian safety, and overall aesthetics at the southern gateway to Vassar College and the Arlington Business District.”
Town Supervisor Rebecca Edwards stated: “Thank you to Governor Hochul for her continued commitment to investing in our local infrastructure to improve traffic safety and enhance quality of life. This new roundabout is a wonderful example of state and local collaboration — improving safety, easing traffic, and creating a more walkable, connected community. The enhancements along Route 376 will make a real difference for residents and visitors alike, and we’re grateful for the partnership that made it possible.”
The NYSDOT says its mission is providing safe transportation systems that connect communities while supporting economic well-being across New York State.
For further information on travel conditions or updates visit www.511NY.org or use their mobile app.
