Traffic concerns raised after cars keep crashing into hotel in East Hampton

Traffic concerns raised after cars keep crashing into hotel in East Hampton, Eye witness news ABC7 reports.

In the realm of East Hampton, Long Island, a persistent and distressing predicament plagues the proprietor of a local inn, where automobiles continually collide with the hotel's facade. The most recent episode unfolded as a vehicle careened through the front porch of the venerable Hedges Inn General just last month. Jennifer Lilja, assuming the roles of Hotel General Manager and Executive Chef, conveys her unsurprised demeanor, disclosing that these collisions have transpired an astonishing eight times in the past decade.

The gravity of these incidents does not escape Lilja, who underscores the potential for severe injuries, considering the velocity and force of the crashes. The crux of the issue lies in the road's layout, specifically concerning drivers journeying east on the well-traveled Route 27. Upon approaching a traffic signal at a crossroads, drivers are compelled to make a left turn onto Main Street to proceed eastward. However, the hotel finds itself roughly 75 yards beyond this intersection, rendering it vulnerable to vehicles inadvertently continuing straight.

The recent collision has rekindled concerns among East Hampton Village officials, propelling them to actively seek a resolution. Mayor Jerry Larsen discloses the enlistment of an engineering group tasked with formulating a strategy to thwart vehicles from encroaching upon the hotel's premises. Yet, any alterations to Route 27, designated as a state road, necessitate approval from the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT).

In response, the NYSDOT avows its lack of awareness regarding safety issues related to the State Route 27 intersection in East Hampton Village. They assert their unwavering commitment to safety and highlight their collaboration with the Governor's Traffic Safety Committee. Presently, rumble strips serve as a precautionary measure to alert drivers, particularly during the nocturnal hours when traffic is less congested.

Mayor Larsen concedes that daytime traffic and the vibrant summer season in the Hamptons act as deterrents to speeding. Nevertheless, he underscores the imperative of collaborative efforts with hotel owners to rectify the issue before the forthcoming season. Despite the obstacles, the village officials remain resolute in their quest to find a enduring solution, ensuring the safety of both motorists and the hotel's clientele.