Bridges reparation project causing safety concerns for Putnam Valley commuters

Metal plates over the bridge on Oscawana Lake Road near Peekskill Hollow Road were supposed to be temporary as a project to repair the bridge was supposed to be completed eight months ago. But things quickly unraveled when the contractor walked off the job.

Nadia Galindo

Apr 20, 2023, 9:54 PM

Updated 506 days ago

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A project to repair three bridges in Putnam Valley is at a standstill, which is causing major safety concerns for drivers.
Metal plates over the bridge on Oscawana Lake Road near Peekskill Hollow Road were supposed to be temporary as a project to repair the bridge was supposed to be completed eight months ago. But things quickly unraveled when the contractor walked off the job.
"We are actively pursuing every option that we can to get work to recommence," said Putnam County Executive Kevin Byrne.
The three projects now left uncompleted along Peekskill Hollow Road costing $13 million have become a problem since Byrne took office in January.
Putnam County and the contractor, Arben Group, disagree on stipulations of the projects contract.
"We don't have the flexibility to do this change in projects and reworking without risking the loss of those state dollars," added Byrne.
The county's attorney says Arben wants to gouge them for more money. Arben Group said they denied the counties claims, and in a copy of a notice News 12 obtained, they intend to sue Putnam County claiming breach of contract by failing to enforce the utility agreement.
They are hoping the two parties can build their own bridge to an agreement and finally get the job done.