By Kat Leslie — Warwick Valley Dispatch
Supervisor Jesse Dwyer’s multi-level collaboration—working with county, state, and federal partners—is paying dividends for residents who rely on Routes 17A and 94 to reach schools, farms, and tourism hubs such as orchards, harness tracks, and antique shops.
On Friday, June 6, 2025, Governor Kathy Hochul announced that work is beginning on a multi-faceted project to construct a roundabout, replace multiple culverts, and resurface State Routes 17A and 94 in the Towns of Warwick and Goshen and the Villages of Warwick, Florida, and Goshen. In an area known for its apple festivals, black dirt farms, harness racing, and unique shopping experiences, this $30 million multi-community project will enhance traffic flow, prevent flooding, improve resiliency, and enhance pedestrian facilities to meet the needs of this growing Hudson Valley region.
Problems Meet Progress
The area remains prone to flooding during intense rain. DOT reports highlight culvert failures at Browns Creek and under Route 17A, where runoff erodes pavement and undermines roadbeds. These culverts—state-listed as top repair priorities—are now scheduled for replacement, greatly reducing the risk of future washouts.
State DOT crews have begun resurfacing 14 miles of roadway stretching from the New Jersey border through Warwick to Goshen. This includes both 17A and 94, along with upgrades to curbs, ramps, and reflective road markings to improve safety in poor weather. Pedestrians will benefit from new sidewalks, crosswalks, and ADA-compliant traffic signals near intersections including Colonial Avenue, Meadow Road, and the future roundabout site.
Perhaps the most notable change within Warwick itself is the construction of a roundabout at the busy junction of Route 94, Reservoir Road, and County Route 1A—long identified in both DOT and local plans as in need of redesign. The roundabout will include street lighting and native landscaping to calm traffic and reduce carbon emissions from idling vehicles. Compared to traffic lights, roundabouts allow smoother flow, reduce collision points, and lower energy use.
Local Leadership in Action
Supervisor Dwyer organized vital intergovernmental meetings with the DOT, mayors, and legislators to advocate for the upgrades. One lasting result: the planned roundabout and drainage work received top billing in the DOT’s April update for improving safety and flood resilience.
“I’ve said it before: we need forward-thinking infrastructure in Warwick,” said Supervisor Dwyer. Originally acknowledged by then-Supervisor Michael Sweeton during FEMA-backed culvert projects, Dwyer has since pressed ahead—securing commitments from federal and state partners to deliver a full transportation overhaul.
Warwick’s proactive financing—issuing bonds ahead of FEMA reimbursement—mirrors the strategy used in the earlier $4.4 million culvert initiative. It underscores Dwyer’s approach: respond immediately, let federal funds catch up later. “That way, we get the job done—not wait on bureaucracy,” Dwyer says.
Readiness and Timing
DOT Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez praised Governor Hochul’s leadership on regional infrastructure, noting that Warwick’s projects prioritize safety, sustainability, and economic opportunity.
Locally, Dwyer continues to coordinate updates and outreach. Initial work has already begun, with minimal lane disruptions, detours, and clear signage. Construction on the roundabout is scheduled as a secondary phase and expected to begin later this year. The overall project is slated for completion by summer 2027.
Residents and businesses along the corridor are advised to monitor detours, visit the Town of Warwick’s website for updates, and plan travel accordingly.
Successful Collaboration
“This multi-faceted project is part of our ongoing commitment to create 21st-century transportation infrastructure that focuses on the needs of communities across the Hudson Valley,” Governor Hochul said.
Senator Chuck Schumer added, “This will construct a new roundabout and resurface State Routes 17A and 94, improving traffic flow along this vital corridor and helping connect residents and visitors to Orange County’s famous apple festivals and black dirt farms—all while creating jobs, jobs, jobs. I’m grateful that Governor Hochul is putting these federal dollars to good use to improve safety and connectivity for New Yorkers in the Hudson Valley.”
“Investing in safe, reliable roads keeps our tourism strong and our residents secure,” Dwyer said. “We solved a flood hazard, reduced idling, and positioned Warwick for long-term success.”
Senior DOT officials echoed the sentiment. “This project isn’t just pavement—it’s planned, resilient growth,” added Commissioner Dominguez.
