Town of Somers Newsletter

Route 202 Crosswalk & Sidewalk Project Completed – Dedicated to Thelma Barlow

The long-awaited sidewalk and pedestrian crossing project at Heritage Hills Drive and De Cicco & Sons Supermarket is now complete! This enhancement includes a new crosswalk and sidewalk along the northern side of Bailey Park, improving pedestrian safety and connectivity in Somers' historic business district.

On January 30, 2025, Town officials, community members, local leaders and middle school students gathered for a ribbon-cutting ceremony to commemorate the project. In a special tribute, the crosswalk was dedicated to Thelma Barlow, a beloved former Somers school crossing guard who dedicated over 30 years to ensuring the safety of our children. A sign reading "Thelma Barlow Crossing" now stands proudly above the crosswalk in her honor.

State Budget Proposal Fails to Fund Town Highways

The poor condition of state-maintained roads in Somers continues to be a growing concern. Unfortunately, the proposed New York State Budget does not include any new funding for the Consolidated Local Street and Highway Improvement Program (CHIPS), which directly impacts road repairs and maintenance statewide.

This lack of funding is particularly troubling for Somers, where Routes 100, 116, 118, 138, 139, and 202 fall under state jurisdiction. Supervisor Scorrano formally expressed his concerns in a letter to Governor Hochul on January 22, 2025. The Town remains committed to advocating for proper funding and will continue to push state legislators to reconsider. Click here to read the Supervisor’s letter.

Our highway crews work hard to keep our roads in top condition, but they need the funding and resources to do the job right. The Town Board will keep pushing state leaders to recognize the importance of local infrastructure and ensure our communities get the support they need.

Press Conference on Local Road Funding with Assemblyman Matt Slater and Highway Superintendent Nicholas DeVito

Supervisor Scorrano thanks everyone who stood with him to make it clear:

Our roads deserve better.

Battery Energy Storage Facility Update

After months of strong opposition from our community, the developer behind the proposed Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) project has officially withdrawn (click here for letter). This marks the end of a fight that brought residents, local leaders, and advocates together in a shared commitment to protecting our Town.

The Supervisor would like to extend his sincere gratitude to everyone who worked tirelessly to oppose this project. Your dedication, persistence, and passion made all the difference. This victory belongs to the community.

Domestic Violence & Mental Health Think Tank

Recognizing the urgent need to address domestic violence and the growing mental health crisis, Supervisor Scorrano organized a think tank bringing together first responders, state leaders, the Somers School District, and local organizations. Our goal is to develop stronger strategies, improve support systems, and enhance collaboration across agencies to better protect and assist those in need—both in Westchester County and right here in Somers.

By uniting key stakeholders, we can identify gaps in resources, strengthen prevention efforts, and ensure victims and families receive the help they deserve. This is just the beginning of a critical conversation, and the Town is committed to driving real change in our community. For resources, please check our website.

New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) Grant Award

The Town has been awarded a grant, not to exceed $281,500.00, from the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP), which will be used on the Historic Elephant Hotel Restoration project. This project will include weather-proofing repairs throughout the building.

Wright-Reis Homestead Horse Barn Restoration Underway

The Wright-Reis Homestead, a cherished historic site in Somers, is undergoing necessary repairs to its horse barn, one of its many outbuildings. In October 2024, the Town Board approved soliciting proposals for the project, and in January 2025, Kowidge Architecture and Design was awarded the contract.

This restoration is made possible through SAM Grant funds secured by NYS Assemblyman Matt Slater, ensuring the preservation of our Town’s rich history for future generations.

 

Somers & North Salem Partner on Sewer Line Project

The Town of North Salem is working to establish a new sewer district in Croton Falls to address ongoing septic issues. As a good neighbor, Somers has agreed to allow North Salem to connect to the Heritage Hills Sewage Treatment Plant, helping resolve these concerns.

In return, North Salem will compensate Somers with a $526,000 loss of convenience fee, ensuring fair use of our infrastructure. The entire project is funded by North Salem, with no cost to Somers residents. This agreement reflects our commitment to regional cooperation and smart infrastructure solutions.

Reis Park Expansion Moves Forward

Exciting progress is being made on the Reis Park Expansion Project! Last summer, Somers gained 11 additional acres through a land exchange with Westchester County, opening the door for new recreational opportunities.

Key project highlights include:

  • New access road from Plum Brook Road for improved park entry
  • 1,050 feet of new park road connecting to the existing southern parking lot
  • 36 additional parking spaces
  • Conversion of a tennis court into four new pickleball courts
  • Upgraded lighting & stormwater management

The Town Board declared itself the Lead Agency on January 16, 2025, allowing for a streamlined approval process. Project updates and site plans are available here.

Ross Drive Water Tank Rehabilitation Set for Spring

The Ross Drive water tank, a critical component of our Consolidated Water District No. 1, is due for interior rehabilitation. While the exterior was last addressed in 2013, the inside of the tank now requires maintenance to ensure continued water quality and pressure stability.

At the January 16, 2025 Town Board meeting, the Town awarded the project to Minoan Industrial LLC, with work scheduled to begin this spring.

 

Honoring Robert J. Castelli

On January 24, 2025, the NY State Police Barracks in Somers was officially dedicated to the late Robert J. Castelli, recognizing his lifetime of public service. A memorial plaque now stands at the barracks in his honor.

A veteran, NYS Trooper, Sergeant, Investigator, and Station Commander, Castelli also served as a New York State Assemblyman and was an active leader in his community, including on the Lewisboro Town Board and Somers Assessment Board of Review. His legacy of service will never be forgotten.

Rescue Task Force Update

Supervisor Scorrano was honored to participate in a panel discussion alongside the Somers Fire Commission and local law enforcement, focusing on emergency response protocols and best practices. This collaborative effort is essential to ensuring that our first responders have the training, coordination, and resources needed to protect the public in any crisis.

By strengthening partnerships between fire, police, and emergency services, we can improve response times, enhance safety measures, and better serve our community. We look forward to continuing these important conversations and implementing strategies that keep Somers residents safe.

CodeRed Renewal Contract: Emergency Notification System

Since 2012, the Town has been using the CodeRed Emergency Notification System to provide important alerts to the residents.  The Town Board approved the two-year contract renewal with OnSolve for the CodeRed Standard and Weather Warning services at the February 13, 2025 meeting.  

In an emergent situation or for a weather warning, residents can receive a notice via phone, text and/or email.

        Sign up here for the Emergency Notification System

The CodeRed system also allows the Town to send emails to residents for community news, events and meeting agendas. When subscribing for news and agendas, you are automatically included in the emergency notification system.  

        Sign up here for News and Agendas & the Emergency Notification System

We encourage all residents to sign up for this valuable communication tool.

  

Veterans Suit Drive: Supporting Those Who Served

Our Veterans Suit Drive is more than just a clothing donation effort—it’s about empowering the men and women who served our country as they transition into civilian careers. Professional attire can make a significant difference in a job interview, giving veterans the confidence and presence needed to make a great first impression.

By donating gently used suits, dress shirts, ties, and professional clothing, we can help veterans take the next step toward meaningful employment. Their service to our nation deserves our support, and this is one small way we can give back. If you have professional attire to contribute, please consider donating and making a difference in the life of a veteran. Every suit tells a story of support, gratitude, and opportunity.

Donations can be dropped off at the Somers Town House until April 30, 2025 during regular business hours (Mon-Fri, 9am-4:30pm).

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