In response to Plandome's concern about the volume of truck traffic traveling through the village on Plandome Road, the board authorized, in July, The Sear-Brown Group to conduct a Truck Traffic Assessment Study.

The objective of the study would be to assess the magnitude of the truck problem and, if necessary, consider the prohibition of truck traffic through the village. Henry Sikorski, the highway commissioner, presented the findings of the first phase of the multi-phased study to the board.

The first phase involved data collection traffic volume and vehicle classification, traffic accident data and structural suitability of Plandome Road to accommodate heavy trucks.

The study, conducted in September, showed that approximately 15,000 vehicles travel the road on a daily basis. Of the 15,000 vehicles, approximately 3 percent (440) of the vehicles are considered heavy duty. Of the heavy duty, 1 percent or 180 are single or multi unit tractor trailers. The board has a concern with these 180 vehicles.

In addition the study analyzed accident history over a 3 1/2 year period. Two locations were pinpointed¬the northerly horizontal curve between Shoreview Lane and Bayview Road and the intersection of South Drive and Shore Road. These two locations were the sites of 60 percent of the accidents on Plandome Road, especially when the pavement was wet.

The study also assessed the pavement condition and horizontal and vertical alignment of Plandome Road. Sight distance measurements were taken around the two horizontal curves on Plandome Road. The report points out that "field measurements indicate the most constrained segment along the southern curve provides a line of sight of approximately 195 feet which means the majority of the curve does not meet minimum safety requirements and is indicative that a motorist would not have adequate time or distance to avoid any obstruction on the road (accident, debris, queue)."

From the data collected, the study enumerated the existing deficiencies of the road. Plandome Road, classified as a minor artery serving local streets, is approaching volume capacity for a two-lane road. Unnecessary delays and queuing occur at the signaled intersection of South Drive and Shore Road. Accident patterns occur at the northern horizontal curve and signalized intersection of South Drive and Shore Road. A substandard sight distance occurs at the northern horizontal curve. The road surface is deteriorating, as is the subsurface roadway.

From the initial findings, the board took immediate action to reduce the present 20 mph advisory limit on the curves to 15 mph. Also, sign postings are to be relocated to better advise vehicular traffic. The new postings will be in accordance with the NYS Manual on Uniform Control Devices.

Given the village's long term desire to maintain the current geometric features and alignment of Plandome Road and its quality as a "country road" the study recommends the diversion of tractor trailers to alternate routes. Also, the study points out that the substandard geometric features and accident patterns provide ample justification to minimize the number of large trucks primarily through the northern horizontal curve in the village. The reduction of these large vehicles will minimize the accident potential through the area and increase the remaining life span of the road.

Given the preliminary study results, the board OK'd the second phase of the study that will study the impact of additional truck traffic introduced onto the alternative route of Port Washington Boulevard. The study will address the ability of the alternative route to accept rerouted truck traffic and the potential of any significant adverse impact.

The board will also meet with the mayors of the surrounding villages to discuss the issue. James J. Hoegler, transportation group manager of The Sear-Brown Group, will also attend the meeting.

The next board meeting will be on Tuesday, Nov. 9 at the village hall.