Dutchess County Restricts Travel Due To Worsening Storm

POUGHKEEPSIE, NY — Dutchess County Executive Marcus J. Molinaro, in consultation with the Dutchess County Department of Emergency Response, Dutchess County Sheriff’s Office, New York State Police and the National Weather Service from Albany, issued an emergency order restricting travel in Dutchess County under a countywide State of Emergency declaration. The emergency order restricts travel on all roadways within Dutchess County effective at 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, March 7 until 4 a.m. Thursday, March 8.

The National Weather Service in Albany is predicting an increased snowfall rate of 1 to 3 inches per hour over the next several hours and safe conditions will be difficult for plow crews to maintain. Law enforcement are reporting worsening road conditions with slippery surfaces.

Dutchess County Government offices, including courts, closed Wednesday at 1 p.m., with only essential county personnel reporting. Dutchess County Public Transit bus service is continuing to operate all routes as scheduled. Bus passengers can check for delays or schedule changes here, on the Dutchess Track mobile app or by calling 845-473-8424, TDD/TTY: 711.

The emergency order states: “Travel on roadways in Dutchess County is restricted except for: medical and health facility personnel, law enforcement and public safety personnel, first responders, utility, maintenance and public works personnel, snow removal sanding, salting and clearing operations personnel, facility operations persons deemed necessary for plant operations by their employers and public and government personnel involved in the emergency operations.”

The state of emergency is issued pursuant to Section 24 of New York State Executive Law. It is enforceable by local, county and state law enforcement agencies.

Photo caption: City of Poughkeepsie, March 7, 2018. Photo credit: Michael Woyton/Patch Staff.