Feb. 15, 2008 – Traffic has been moving smoothly outside Shaker High School now that a three-color traffic signal has been installed at the intersection of the school and Route 155.

“The light has made such a huge difference for the thousands of people who come and go each day,” said Shaker High School Principal Rich Murphy.

More than 230 student drivers, 300 faculty and staff members, 40 school buses, and scores of parents and community members enter and exit Shaker High School every school day.

The traffic signal is the culmination of a decade-long effort by community members, school officials, and local government representatives to create a safer traffic pattern at the busy school entrance.

“The beautiful part about this project is that it came from the people—they persevered and worked with the government to get this done,” said Assemblyman Bob Reilly, during a short ceremony on Friday, Feb. 15 at the high school. “This is an example of government at its best.”

“This project represents an excellent example of a school district and political entities working together, and it is a fine civics lesson to share with our students,” said Superintendent Randy Ehrenberg. “Representatives of two political parties collaborated with us to get this light; in my opinion, this is what government should and can be. I am appreciative of the efforts of former Town Supervisor Mary Brizzell, former Assemblyman Bob Prentiss and Assemblyman Bob Reilly.” 
 

“The best thing is—we've addressed a safety hazard in our community,” said North Colonie resident and parent Linda Brundt, who was instrumental in making this project a reality. “I hope people continue to drive safely.”

Brundt, along with community member Katherine Thomas and former board member Lissa Fine began working collaboratively with the district ten years ago to install a traffic signal. At the time, the New York State Department of Transportation (DOT) identified the need for traffic control at the intersection, but state law prohibited them from paying for the installation of traffic signals at the entrances of schools.
 

Assemblyman Bob Reilly, pictured with Board of Education President Joan Hart, was instrumental in securing a traffic signal outside Shaker High School.

Recognizing the need for a safer school entrance, the district began earmarking some of its funds and solicited help from the Town of Colonie and Assemblyman Reilly to pay for the $340,000 project.
 

“I am very grateful to Superintendent Ehrenberg and Assemblyman Reilly for taking action,” said Brundt.
 

In August 2006, state law was modified, allowing DOT to pay for, and install, traffic signals at school entrances. As a result, DOT assumed all costs associated with the design, construction and installation of the new traffic signal.

“It was something we really wanted to happen, and we’re thrilled that it’s done,” said Board of Education President Joan Hart.

“We are so thankful that we were able to make this happen at no direct cost to our taxpayers,” said Superintendent Randy Ehrenberg.