Empire state trail CULVERT redesign at Hopewell Junction

The Empire State Trail is facing a significant design change at Route 82 in Hopewell Junction. The current aging bridge overpass that serves car traffic on 82, will be torn down and traffic will be brought to street level. In order to avoid an intersection with 82 and the trail, New York State Department of Transportation is proposing a culvert/tunnel instead of the previously planned bridge crossing—primarily due to cost concerns.

FROM NY DOT WEBSITE (Project ID No. 801449): This project will remove the existing structure that carries Route 82 over the Metro North Rail Line in Hopewell Junction in the Town of East Fishkill in Dutchess County to create an at-grade crossing of Route 82 with the Metro North Railroad service track to the Hopewell Yard. The work will also include the installation of a pedestrian culvert to reroute pedestrian traffic from the Empire State Trail under Route 82 north of the existing bridge location. The project will also replace the existing signalized intersection of Route 82 and Beekman Road with a single lane roundabout to improve safety and operations. (PAGE LINK)

This decision will directly impact safety, usability, and the overall experience of the trail. If you use or care about this corridor, now is the time to weigh in.

Why a bridge is the better option:

• More open, visible, and naturally well-lit—improving user safety

• Maintains a straighter, more intuitive trail alignment

• Avoids additional crossings, including Metro-North access points

• Eliminates the need for roadway elevation changes (“bumps”) due to high water tables

• Preserves nearby parking and minimizes disruption to local businesses

• Reduces impact on surrounding wetlands

• Prioritizes trail users: Walking and biking are slower, more vulnerable modes of transportation and should have the most direct, convenient route. A bridge keeps the trail aligned for users, rather than rerouting them to accommodate vehicle traffic.

The Hopewell Depot Museum plans to formally oppose the tunnel proposal and supports keeping the bridge design.

Clear, concise public input can influence infrastructure decisions—especially when it highlights safety, accessibility, and long-term community value.

Email your feedback to state DOT with this prewritten letter

or call NYDOT and let them know your thoughts at 845-431-7911