Nassau County Presiding Officer Judy Jacobs (D-Woodbury) has intervened on behalf of local Woodbury residents in an attempt to correct a dangerous traffic situation that exists less than 50 yards from their front lawn.

Michael and Janice Stone have lived in Woodbury for 22 years on a cul-de-sac that abuts the access road from the Seaford Oyster Bay Expressway leading to the Northern State Parkway going west, but the redesigning of that road a year ago has led to a major safety concern for the Stones. New York State Department of Transportation workers cleared much of the foliage, trees and buffer that stood between the expressway ramp and their property.

"I understand that the state DOT has a voluminous agenda," said Jacobs, "but the health, safety and welfare of both residents and drivers has been in danger for over a year."

"There is definitely a major safety issue," Mr. Stone said. "The cars come screeching around the turn and there have been many accidents to date. Many of the accident victims walk down the short hill to my house and I allow them to call for service."

Despite numerous letters to state officials, Mr. Stone got no satisfaction-just form letters. That is when he is contacted Presiding Officer Jacobs to ask if she could intercede on his behalf.

Jacobs immediately contacted the regional director of the NYSDOT, stating, "This is not one of those items that should be put on the back burner or ignored. The seriousness of the current situation jeopardizes the safety not only of the residents who abut the property, but the drivers making the turn, and requires immediate attention."

Jacobs has asked state officials to place a cement buffer or guardrail on the curve to prevent cars from rolling down the hill.

The state's response so far has been to send Jacobs another copy of the same form letter sent to Mr. Stone, but she is continuing to pursue a solution by contacting state lawmakers and DOT officials by phone.

"I won't rest until this situation is made safe for these residents," said Jacobs. "The state can't just come in here, redesign the ramp and leave town with no concern for the safety of those living nearby. This is unacceptable."

Meanwhile, the Stones have their home up for sale and have been unable to find a buyer. "Brokers show up and say that they are very sorry, but their prospects have safety concerns and won't even look at our house," said Mr. Stone.