Government

Rockland County Urges Pedestrian Safety as Crash Numbers Remain a Concern

Published

1 month ago

June 12, 2026

Rockland County officials are reminding residents to stay vigilant on roadways as pedestrian crashes continue to result in serious injuries and fatalities across New York State.

According to the Traffic Safety Statistical Repository, more than 300 pedestrians are killed and thousands more are injured on New York roadways each year. In Rockland County alone, 208 pedestrians were killed or injured in traffic crashes during 2024.

Pedestrians account for nearly one-quarter of all traffic fatalities statewide, highlighting the importance of safety measures for both drivers and those traveling on foot.

Safety officials say many pedestrian crashes occur at intersections or while crossing roadways. Common contributing factors include distracted driving, speeding, failure to yield the right of way, alcohol use, and inadequate crossing infrastructure.

To help reduce the risk of crashes, Rockland County is encouraging pedestrians to follow several key safety practices:

Cross at intersections or marked crosswalks whenever possible.
Obey pedestrian traffic signals.
Make eye contact with drivers before entering a roadway.
Avoid distractions such as texting or listening to music while walking.
Wear reflective clothing or carry a flashlight when walking at night.
Walk facing oncoming traffic when sidewalks are unavailable.

County officials emphasize that improving pedestrian safety requires a collaborative effort involving education, enforcement, and infrastructure improvements. Rockland County continues to support public awareness campaigns and targeted traffic enforcement initiatives aimed at reducing pedestrian-related crashes.

Officials are urging all residents—whether driving, cycling, or walking—to remain alert and follow traffic laws to help prevent avoidable tragedies.

“Eyes on the Road, Rockland. Stay alert. Follow the rules. Look out for one another.”

The pedestrian safety campaign is funded by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration through a grant from the New York State Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee.

Additional pedestrian safety information is available through the Rockland County Safe Streets program.

Government

Turn Food Scraps Into Compost with Rockland’s Recycling Program

Published

1 week ago

July 18, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

After a summer barbecue or family gathering, those leftover food scraps don’t have to end up in the trash.

Rockland County is encouraging residents to join its Food Scrap Recycling Program, which diverts food waste from landfills and turns it into nutrient-rich compost.

Food scraps that end up in landfills produce methane, a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change. By recycling items such as fruit and vegetable peels, coffee grounds, eggshells, and other food waste, residents can help reduce emissions while creating a valuable resource for agriculture and landscaping.

County officials say the program is easy to join and can make a meaningful difference in reducing a household’s environmental footprint.

From banana peels and watermelon rinds to leftovers from backyard cookouts, every bit of food waste recycled helps keep organic material out of landfills.

Residents interested in participating can learn more and sign up through the county’s Food Scrap Recycling Program.

Government

Rockland Health Department Issues Hudson River Recreation Update

Published

3 weeks ago

July 5, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

The Rockland County Department of Health is advising residents that the Yonkers Wastewater Recovery Facility has been fully operational since July 3, while reminding the public to follow state health guidance when recreating on the Hudson River this holiday weekend.

According to the department, the New York State Department of Health and the Department of Environmental Conservation have been coordinating with Rockland and Westchester counties, New York City, and other partner agencies following the wastewater system disruption.

Health officials said residents should not drink untreated Hudson River water under any circumstances. They also advise against swimming or participating in activities that involve full-body immersion at beaches that remain closed.

However, officials said recreational activities involving partial contact with the water—including boating, kayaking, and fishing—are considered safe. Anglers are encouraged to review New York State Department of Health fish consumption advisories before eating their catch.

The Rockland County Department of Health said it will continue working with state and local agencies to monitor conditions.