As I was navigating State Route 28, I couldn’t help but admire the economic stimulus strategy introduced to the area by the New York State Department of Transportation.
It’s ingenious really, how they were able to implement a lower speed limit without any sort of legislation in order to slow down traffic, to allow them to better admire our area—and you can get an even closer look as you sit alongside the road waiting for the tow truck.
And just think of all the jobs that are being created. Starting with the tow services and all the extra drivers they will require; then there are the mechanics that will be needed
All the while, the tourists will be able to peruse the area’s gift shops while working up an appetite from all the shopping and stress.
There are bound to be extra positions created at these establishments, and the fees that will be generated at the ATMs alone for the extra cash needed for souvenirs, food, repairs and tips could be astronomical.
Should this eventually reach its full potential, things could get a bit backed up at the garages requiring overnight stays, necessitating more chambermaids and possibly even the need for a car rental agency.
There is no limit as to where this could lead us and, considering all of the county roads, maybe they could be persuaded into joining in and help us reap the bounty.
I know that many of the locals have already tested the plan and found that it is working thus far, and this dry run has proven that it will work this summer when the tourist season hits.
It just goes to show you that trickledown economics really works. Or is that just antifreeze or transmission fluid?
David Berkstresser, Old Forge
