Filed Under: Environmental Issues | Westchester | Transportation | Transportation

The Tappan Zee Bridge

As it developed, Westchester County’s transportation system followed the east bank of the Hudson River, the Long Island Sound plain and the Bronx River and Saw Mill River valleys. Colonial post roads, railroads and the first parkways followed these level flood plains and valleys, and housing, businesses, and industry developed accordingly. Municipalities grew up around railroad stations, river landings and major roads, and the availability of convenient rail transport to New York City concentrated Westchester County’s population in the southern part of the County, while northern regions remained relatively rural.

Increased automobile use and the construction of east-west roads during the 1930s - 1950s stimulated the growth of Westchester County’s less-developed towns. People, factories, corporations and retail centers spread out along the new highways, creating sprawl—scattered development that weakens town centers, reduces open space, and fosters dependence on cars. The many major corporations that have established spread-out corporate campuses in Westchester in recent years have augmented this problem.