For residents, the quick cross across the railway is a real way to save time.Concerns about a train crossing are heating up in Fonda. Residents say a crossing located on Center Street near Main Street is too dangerous for people to continue crossing. However, some people argue the crossing could save their lives.
"It's popular with locals," says one resident. What is not so popular, is a proposal to close the railway crossing in Fonda.
For residents, the quick cross across the railway is a real way to save time.
"It's a short cut, so you don't get stopped at the red light where there's a lot of truck traffic," says local business owner Tom Persse. "You can zip through here."
It is not just commuters fighting for the short cut.
"We also have (the) Gilboa Dam which is looming, people may have forgotten about that," says Montgomery County Sheriff Michael Amato. "But, I'd like to keep all the exits around the river open."
While the sheriff cites concerns about how to evacuate the area from the well-known and wore dam area in the event of a break, the rail road cites safety - especially in light of last years deadly accident just a block away.
A commuter was killed when a train slammed into her car. CSX Spokesman Bob Sullivan tells NEWS10 the closure reduces risk and improves safety, adding, "we want to work with the communities, and our sincere hope is that we can arrive at something that addresses everybody's needs and concerns."
"I would hate to see it close," one resident said.
It is not a done deal. The crossing closure will come up for a public hearing on June 8.
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