Governor Hochul and DOT to New Yorkers: Prepare for traffic interruptions and delays as once in a generation eclipse nears

Authorities are urging local residents to start making plans to adjust their travel routines in the days leading to the eclipse.

This once in a generation experience will occur on Monday, April 8, as 29 counties within New York State, including much of the North Country, will be in the path of totality.

For the past 17-months, a task force, organized via the office of Governor Kathy Hochul, has been collaborating plans to handle an influx of eclipse viewers.

For other areas of the state that are outside the path of totality, there will still be 88 percent to over 99 percent coverage.

The next total solar eclipse that will be visible from the contiguous U.S. will not be until August, 2044.

“There’s no better place to take in the upcoming solar eclipse than New York State and under Governor Hochul’s leadership every level of government is working around the clock to make sure this event is as safe and enjoyable as possible," New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said.

"The Department of Transportation will have crews and resources out in force to help people get where they need to go before, during and after the eclipse. But everybody needs to do their part and that means planning ahead. We urge everyone to arrive at their destinations early, stay later, avoid parking on the side of the road and, above all, be patient. A lot of people will be on the roads and it’s up to each of us to keep safety top of mind so everyone can enjoy this natural wonder.”

Governor Hochul has directed State Police, DOT and Thruway to prepare for a high volume of traffic the weekend leading up to the eclipse and through April 9.

Vehicles are not allowed to park on the shoulder of the highway to view the eclipse. DOT and Thruway will have increased staffing and patrols for maintenance and traffic crews.

Additionally, construction and temporary lane closures will be suspended to allow traffic to flow.

New York’s public safety efforts align with the State’s normal jurisdictional role over state parks and State roads and support to local governments in their planning and decision making in accordance with their own codes, laws and needs as this exciting event approaches.

Public safety challenges for such an event include traffic management, communications capabilities and public health and safety.

State, county and local public safety and emergency management efforts have been and will continue to be tailored to the anticipated needs from an influx of those who come to view the eclipse from both inside and outside the state.

NASA image.