Yisroel R.

Following a recent Rockland Daily article submitted by a reader highlighting safety concerns at the crossing between Sheiner’s Shul and the large parking lot across 18 Forshay Road, Town of Ramapo and Rockland County officials reached out to Rockland Daily after the article gained significant attention throughout the community. Officials discussed the issue with Rockland Daily and shared several ideas that could help improve the safety at the shul.

The concern is one that many local residents are familiar with. Throughout the day, and especially during davening times, hundreds of people cross Forshay Road between Sheiner’s Shul and the parking lot. Residents have long pointed to the crossing as a safety concern, noting that Forshay Road is a busy roadway while large numbers of pedestrians regularly cross back and forth. The reader-submitted article described the situation as "a disaster waiting to happen" and questioned why more permanent safety measures have not yet been put in place.

Officials acknowledged that the crossing presents unique challenges due to the large volume of both pedestrian and vehicle traffic. While the long-term solution is expected to come when the new Sheiner’s Shul building is completed and ready to use, which will then be located right near, and on the street side of the massive parking lot, officials acknowledged that the project may still take time before the move takes place.

In the meantime, officials are discussing possible safety improvements. One idea being considered would be to create one or two designated crossing locations to serve as crossing points rather than having pedestrians crossing from multiple spots along the road. The plan would involve potentially installing fencing, gates, or barricades along parts of the road to disable crossing points other than the designated crossing spots, with potential crossing guards assisting people at the designated crossings.

Officials said the issue is being taken seriously and discussions are continuing as efforts move forward to improve safety for the many pedestrians and motorists who use Forshay Road each day.

The response also highlights the importance of residents voicing concerns about issues affecting the community. Rockland Daily's broad reach throughout Monsey and Rockland County allows local concerns to be brought to the attention of the officials and agencies responsible for addressing them, helping give residents a voice on matters that impact daily life.