WURTSBORO — As part of the ongoing effort to save Exit 114 from closure, U.S. Congressman Josh Riley (NY-19) visited the Village of Wurtsboro this past Saturday, while also touring some of the shops like O’Toole’s, Canal Towne Emporium, the Basha Kill Bazaar and the public library.

The Exit 114 situation

As part of the New York State Department of Transportation’s (NYSDOT) expansion project, Exit 114 on New York State Route 17, which serves the Town of Mamakating and the Village of Wurtsboro, is currently in danger of closing.

This initiative aims to enhance a 30-mile stretch of the highway from Exit 113 in Wurtsboro, Sullivan County, to Interstate 87 in Woodbury, Orange County, with goals of improving operational efficiency, safety, and congestion, while ensuring the corridor meets Interstate standards.

Since the proposed closure made the rounds in the community, local residents, business owners and officials have expressed significant concerns regarding the situation. 

They argue that eliminating Exit 114 could severely impact the local economy, hinder emergency response times and reduce accessibility to the village. 

In response, the community has mobilized efforts to keep the exit open, including organizing rallies, initiating petitions and engaging in discussions with state representatives.

Riley’s takeaway

“I got the impression that [Riley] really likes Wurtsboro,” explained Mamakating Town Councilman Matt Mordas. “He seems to be very supportive of our efforts.

According to Mordas, Riley also issued a “strong” letter [word] of support to be issued to the Highway Administration and New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT). Riley confirmed via another social media post that he stood with local business owners and stakeholders to urge the Federal Highway Administration to keep the exit open.

“The future of Wurtsboro depends on it [keeping the exit open], and we’re not backing down,” stated Riley.

Mordas wanted to thank Wurtsboro Mayor Frank Sisco for lending the Village Hall [for meeting with Town and Village officials]. He also thanks the Wurtsboro Board of Trade as well as all merchants involved.

“I want to thank this Board for all the support that they’ve given for this cause,” stated Mordas. “I get a good feeling when both municipalities cooperate with each other.”

“We’re gonna keep at it and we’ll see what happens. I know NYSDOT and the Federal Highway Administration hear us, but I also hope they listen to us.”