Should 10,000-lb Trucks Be Banned From Noyac Road?

Speakers at Tuesday's public hearing concerning a proposed prohibition on Noyac Road of commercial trucks weighing more than 10,000 pounds were mixed on the legislation.

Some truck drivers and business owners told the that diverting trucks to Montauk Highway will lengthen their time on the road, resulting in higher costs for consumers. Residents of the Scuttle Hole Road area were concerned the ban would increase traffic in their neighborhoods. And many Noyac residents said they would appreciate a ban on large noisy trucks — but an even bigger concern was speeding on Noyac Road, by both truck drivers other motorists, making it dangerous to pull in or out of a driveway.

Southampton Town Highway Superintendent Alex Gregor said that if trucks come off the road, the remaining drivers will only drive faster. Town Board members said they would explore ways to discourage speeding on the road.

As summarized in a public hearing notice:

• The purpose of this law, in order to enhance traffic-calming measures, is to exclude trucks over 10,000 pounds from using Noyac Road and connecting arteries, pursuant to Vehicle and Traffic Law §1660.  This prohibition shall not however, be construed to apply to the following:  the transportation of school children to and from their homes; the delivery or pickup of merchandise or other property along the highways from which such trucks or buses are excluded; the use of roads by motor coaches engaged in local touring or by charter buses or by buses transporting passengers from or between railroad stations pursuant to a contract with the Metropolitan Transit Authority; municipally owned vehicles; vehicles engaged in the business of agricultural production; or to prevent owners of such vehicles from reaching their residence or place of business.

The public hearing was closed Tuesday, but written comment may still be submitted for 30 days.

Do you agree with banning heavy trucks from Noyac Road? What should the town do to discourage speeding? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.