The Kingston Common Council voted 7-2 on December 1 to borrow $425,000 to realign the intersection of Broadway and Grand Street, with aldermen Michele Hirsch and Jeffery Ventura Morell voting against the resolution.
The demolition of the former Planet Wings building is also a part of the planned realignment. The building was originally purchased by the city for $450,000 in July 2019 after it closed in February 2017.
Several aldermen said they didn’t know how much the project would end up costing the city.
“I am very frustrated with the lack of communication from the city government,” said aldermen Tony Davis. “We get one figure, and they come back for more money. We have to learn in the future that if we do a project like this, we have to get the best estimates of the total project so we as the council, and the taxpayers, have a full total cost.”
Other aldermen discussed their concerns regarding public safety at this intersection, and why the realignment is necessary. However, alderman Patrick O’Reilly said he feels the project is more for aesthetic purposes.
“It’s very expensive,” said O’Reilly. “I’ve heard people say it’s not the most dangerous intersection in town or close to it. What we’re paying for is a pleasurable spot to view on Broadway … It’s a long time coming, a lot of money and a tough vote. It’s spending we don’t have on a project to enhance the beauty of the City of Kingston. Are we willing to do that right now?”
Alderwoman Hirsch was originally a yes vote, but explained that “after today and listening to County Executive Pat Ryan’s press conference regarding the rapid, rapid upswing of Covid in our community, I think we should hit the pause button on this for a month or two.”
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