AARoads Forum

National Boards => Road Enthusiasts Meetings => Topic started by: cl94 on October 02, 2016, 10:13:13 PM

Poll
Question: Possible Glens Falls/Lake George meet date?
Option 1: June 24 votes: 5
Option 2: July 8 votes: 11
Title: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet - July 8
Post by: cl94 on October 02, 2016, 10:13:13 PM
Greetings, everyone. From what I posted on the "2017 Meets" thread, there seems to be a little bit of interest in a meet centered on the southeastern Adirondack Mountains. This would be the first meet I've hosted and the center/lunch location would likely be in Glens Falls, about 45 miles north of Albany. From what I can tell, there haven't been many (if any) meets in this general area even though there are a ton of items that would be of interest to roadgeeks.

Possible items on the tour may include, but are not limited to:

- The Hadley Parabolic Bridge (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hadley_Parabolic_Bridge), one of only 3 bridges of its type ever constructed and the last remaining. This would likely be the meet photo location and will certainly be on the route if a meet does occur.
- A clinch of NY 418
- The Schroon River bridges in Warrensburg
- A section of the Northway, rated the most scenic freeway in the country when it opened. Stretch between 21 and 24 has its original bridge decks and railings in most places.
- The Northway stub at Exit 22 and its A-15 shields
- Washington County's former style of CR signage
- Old Hudson River bridges in Hudson Falls and Fort Edward
- Covered bridges in Washington County
- The US 9 bridge over the Hudson in Glens Falls

I included a poll of possible dates for a meet. If you have any interest in attending, choose as many dates as you think you can attend and you can change your choices at any time. A couple notes on the dates I chose:

- I purposely chose dates that do not coincide with holiday weekends. This is because tourist traffic is way up those weekends.
- June 10 is the last day of Americade and, having grown up in the area, I know that none of us want to be driving around that week and it'll be impossible for anyone to get a hotel room
- The later we go, the more traffic there will be and the more hotel rooms will cost, especially at the end of July as horse racing season starts up

Location:
Cooper's Cave Ale Company ( 2 Sagamore St, Glens Falls, NY 12801 )
11:30 AM
Park on the street or at the back of the Price Chopper parking lot across the street
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: Roadgeek Adam on October 03, 2016, 12:30:50 AM
Be it I don't get home until after May 20, it's not easy. Also, having seen a majority of these, where is the old signage left aside of Huletts Landing for Washington County?
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: cl94 on October 03, 2016, 12:25:32 PM
Yeah, I was hoping for a June date myself if it does happen because the 20th is immediately after I finish, but I threw it in in case people prefer an earlier date.

Original signs remain on CR 35 just west of CR 36 in Kingsbury (https://www.google.com/maps/@43.3727661,-73.5649861,3a,45.1y,134.73h,88.47t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sxQIf1f-VLtSCkB4lRu62cQ!2e0!7i13312!8i6656), which just happens to be on the fastest route between Lake George and Hudson Falls.

My planned route to/from the Hadley bridge would involve Saratoga CR 24 and Warren CRs 3/12 with a possible detour over the Stewart's Bridge Dam. For those unfamiliar, CR 24 runs alongside Spier Falls, which was the largest waterfall on the Hudson before the hydroelectric dam was built,
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: vdeane on October 03, 2016, 12:45:55 PM
I'm not aware of any conflicts as of yet, but mid/late June is typically when the family picnic is, introducing potential conflicts with June 17 and June 24.  Also, the fact that the Alaska meet will be next year around that time (to maximize daylight for driving the Dalton Highway) certainly makes things more complicated.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: hbelkins on October 03, 2016, 04:03:31 PM
Quote from: vdeane on October 03, 2016, 12:45:55 PM
I'm not aware of any conflicts as of yet, but mid/late June is typically when the family picnic is, introducing potential conflicts with June 17 and June 24.  Also, the fact that the Alaska meet will be next year around that time (to maximize daylight for driving the Dalton Highway) certainly makes things more complicated.

Realistically, how many people are going to Alaska?
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: noelbotevera on October 03, 2016, 06:10:17 PM
I could catch this one on my way back from Montreal. Maybe if there's time and I can convince my dad. I'm hoping for June or July so I can work out how to do plan my Toronto/Montreal trip next year.

I'm also going to Boston sometime before or after this timeframe, so I have a second chance if it doesn't work out, but only after I come home from Montreal.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: Alps on October 03, 2016, 08:41:21 PM
Quote from: hbelkins on October 03, 2016, 04:03:31 PM
Quote from: vdeane on October 03, 2016, 12:45:55 PM
I'm not aware of any conflicts as of yet, but mid/late June is typically when the family picnic is, introducing potential conflicts with June 17 and June 24.  Also, the fact that the Alaska meet will be next year around that time (to maximize daylight for driving the Dalton Highway) certainly makes things more complicated.

Realistically, how many people are going to Alaska?
At least two, maybe three of those who would consider attending this meet.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: cl94 on October 03, 2016, 08:43:42 PM
We could just as easily do this thing in mid to late July. As long as it isn't a festival weekend, traffic wouldn't be miserable.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: noelbotevera on October 03, 2016, 09:05:55 PM
Quote from: cl94 on October 03, 2016, 08:43:42 PM
We could just as easily do this thing in mid to late July. As long as it isn't a festival weekend, traffic wouldn't be miserable.
What do you mean by festival? I haven't heard of such.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: cl94 on October 03, 2016, 09:10:49 PM
Quote from: noelbotevera on October 03, 2016, 09:05:55 PM
Quote from: cl94 on October 03, 2016, 08:43:42 PM
We could just as easily do this thing in mid to late July. As long as it isn't a festival weekend, traffic wouldn't be miserable.
What do you mean by festival? I haven't heard of such.

Lake George and the surrounding communities run festivals some weekends (because they need any more tourists clogging the roads up). Americade is the big one (early June), but there are a few others.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: Roadgeek Adam on October 03, 2016, 10:58:42 PM
Quote from: cl94 on October 03, 2016, 09:10:49 PM
Quote from: noelbotevera on October 03, 2016, 09:05:55 PM
Quote from: cl94 on October 03, 2016, 08:43:42 PM
We could just as easily do this thing in mid to late July. As long as it isn't a festival weekend, traffic wouldn't be miserable.
What do you mean by festival? I haven't heard of such.

Lake George and the surrounding communities run festivals some weekends (because they need any more tourists clogging the roads up). Americade is the big one (early June), but there are a few others.

As a post meet, we should totally go in House of Frankenstein or take a boat ride
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: cl94 on October 03, 2016, 11:00:55 PM
Quote from: Roadgeek Adam on October 03, 2016, 10:58:42 PM
Quote from: cl94 on October 03, 2016, 09:10:49 PM
Quote from: noelbotevera on October 03, 2016, 09:05:55 PM
Quote from: cl94 on October 03, 2016, 08:43:42 PM
We could just as easily do this thing in mid to late July. As long as it isn't a festival weekend, traffic wouldn't be miserable.
What do you mean by festival? I haven't heard of such.

Lake George and the surrounding communities run festivals some weekends (because they need any more tourists clogging the roads up). Americade is the big one (early June), but there are a few others.

As a post meet, we should totally go in House of Frankenstein or take a boat ride

I was actually thinking that. Bunch of stuff like that in the area.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: jpi on October 04, 2016, 03:36:21 PM
I went ahead and voted for June 3, my wife and I may be in central PA around that time for our nephews high school graduation and since this is only a few hours away, this may be doable and the best date for us to make it to such a meet.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: froggie on October 05, 2016, 07:59:48 PM
WAY TOO EARLY to be picking a date.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: cl94 on October 05, 2016, 08:12:04 PM
Quote from: froggie on October 05, 2016, 07:59:48 PM
WAY TOO EARLY to be picking a date.

Good point. Good point. Just gauging interest then.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: dgolub on October 06, 2016, 08:59:47 AM
Quote from: cl94 on October 05, 2016, 08:12:04 PM
Quote from: froggie on October 05, 2016, 07:59:48 PM
WAY TOO EARLY to be picking a date.

Good point. Good point. Just gauging interest then.

Agreed.  I'd definitely be interested.  At this point, I don't have any known conflicts with any of the proposed dates.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: Dougtone on October 06, 2016, 08:24:38 PM
Quote from: cl94 on October 03, 2016, 12:25:32 PM
Yeah, I was hoping for a June date myself if it does happen because the 20th is immediately after I finish, but I threw it in in case people prefer an earlier date.

Original signs remain on CR 35 just west of CR 36 in Kingsbury (https://www.google.com/maps/@43.3727661,-73.5649861,3a,45.1y,134.73h,88.47t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sxQIf1f-VLtSCkB4lRu62cQ!2e0!7i13312!8i6656), which just happens to be on the fastest route between Lake George and Hudson Falls.

My planned route to/from the Hadley bridge would involve Saratoga CR 24 and Warren CRs 3/12 with a possible detour over the Stewart's Bridge Dam. For those unfamiliar, CR 24 runs alongside Spier Falls, which was the largest waterfall on the Hudson before the hydroelectric dam was built,

If you go a little further east on Washington CR 36, you will find a very, very old sign at the corner of CR 36 and Bentley Road. The sign is blade sign sized and is for Smiths Basin. Not sure if you've spotted that.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: tckma on October 10, 2016, 01:29:14 PM
I might be interested.  As far as I know, I have no conflicts as of yet, but it's still quite a ways off!
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: A.J. Bertin on October 10, 2016, 09:24:41 PM
Quote from: froggie on October 05, 2016, 07:59:48 PM
WAY TOO EARLY to be picking a date.

I don't agree with that. Nowadays meets are planned often up to a year in advance. It's not unheard of by any means. When Patrick Lilja was in the early planning stages of his Duluth MN meet which took place in July 2016, I believe he was suggesting possible dates as early as August or September 2015.

There's nothing wrong with advance planning.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: cl94 on October 10, 2016, 10:16:11 PM
Part of my thought with having a general date range penciled in is to avoid conflict with future meets. For example, I don't want anything to conflict with Alps's Alaska meet, as it would get a few people from this region. The last thing anyone wants is to have competing meets.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: hbelkins on October 10, 2016, 10:24:15 PM
Quote from: cl94 on October 10, 2016, 10:16:11 PM
Part of my thought with having a general date range penciled in is to avoid conflict with future meets. For example, I don't want anything to conflict with Alps's Alaska meet, as it would get a few people from this region. The last thing anyone wants is to have competing meets.

There have been competing meets before -- such as Lawrence, Kan. and Columbus, Ohio back about five years ago. As long as they're in relatively distant geographical areas, it's not really an issue except for those who are willing to drive long distances and are relatively equidistant from the meet sites. I chose Kansas over Ohio because Columbus is close enough that I can make a day trip of it if I'm so inclined. There have been at least two Columbus meets and I've missed both of them.

Other than that, I'd go by the rule of first come, first served. If you're inclined to set a date now, the Alaska meet can either pick a different date, or the organizer can pick the same date as what you choose and make attendees pick between them.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: Alps on October 10, 2016, 10:35:42 PM
Alaska is a distinct happening. It probably wouldn't even be on a Saturday, given that no one is spending just a weekend in Alaska flying up and back. Midweek is the most likely meet time - maybe a Tuesday in Fairbanks and then a Wed-Thu drive on the Dalton. Need to do some thinking.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: cl94 on October 10, 2016, 10:47:09 PM
Quote from: Alps on October 10, 2016, 10:35:42 PM
Alaska is a distinct happening. It probably wouldn't even be on a Saturday, given that no one is spending just a weekend in Alaska flying up and back. Midweek is the most likely meet time - maybe a Tuesday in Fairbanks and then a Wed-Thu drive on the Dalton. Need to do some thinking.

Which is why I'm deferring everything until your date is set and not scheduling within a couple of weeks of it. Heck, if it wasn't for my crazy grad school summer research schedule, I'd love to be there as well. I just can't take that much time off at once before the TRB deadline.

Alaska is different from the other meets for a couple of reasons:

1. It's long distance for everyone
2. It'll be many times longer than the typical meet

Most meets don't draw a bunch of long-distance travelers. Birmingham was the exception, as multiple people traveled over 8 hours to get there and having it on a holiday weekend at the end of the meet season certainly helped. Alaska will be an even bigger exception, as nobody will be local and plans will need to be made much further in advance.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: A.J. Bertin on October 11, 2016, 12:49:41 PM
Quote from: cl94 on October 10, 2016, 10:47:09 PM
Most meets don't draw a bunch of long-distance travelers.

I'm not 100 percent sure I agree with this. It seems like it's often the case that road meets do draw at least a few people from a few states away.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: froggie on October 11, 2016, 01:18:04 PM
At least a few people, perhaps, but that's still a minority of meet attendees in virtually every case.  There's only a small subset of people that have the means and the time to travel significant distances to attend a meet.  As HB noted, there is nothing wrong with having more than one meet on the same day in different geographical regions.  If you guys don't like having to choose, I would point out that life is nothing but choices.

Something else to consider when it comes to scheduling is that there are plenty of other things and events and family to consider when it comes to figuring out if one's available on a given day.  Sure, I may say I'm available for something on day X.  But what if a family or other obligation comes up between now and then?  In my experience, it's easier and safer to commit closer to the event than it is several months out.

Lastly, some of you seem to think that "bigger is better" when it comes to meets and the size of them.  But that's not always the case (the restaurant mess at SE PA 5 or 6 years ago if you want an example).  There is something to be said for quality over quantity.  I've seen/had several very good meets that were as few as 4-6 people.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: hbelkins on October 11, 2016, 04:29:19 PM
Quote from: froggie on October 11, 2016, 01:18:04 PM
Lastly, some of you seem to think that "bigger is better" when it comes to meets and the size of them.  But that's not always the case (the restaurant mess at SE PA 5 or 6 years ago if you want an example).  There is something to be said for quality over quantity.  I've seen/had several very good meets that were as few as 4-6 people.

I think part of that is because the meets have become more about socializing and less about roads, especially when the attendees are people who live in different parts of the country and aren't in a position to get together more often on a casual basis (such as those who live along the I-95 corridor between DC and NYC. Witness the increased popularity of post-meet events like evening meals or sporting events.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: A.J. Bertin on October 11, 2016, 06:32:03 PM
Quote from: froggie on October 11, 2016, 01:18:04 PM
Something else to consider when it comes to scheduling is that there are plenty of other things and events and family to consider when it comes to figuring out if one's available on a given day.  Sure, I may say I'm available for something on day X.  But what if a family or other obligation comes up between now and then?  In my experience, it's easier and safer to commit closer to the event than it is several months out.

That may be your experience, and I'm sure your experience is shared by others. However, there are also people on the flipside of that who are not as close to their families or who don't have the kinds of lives where other obligations pop up as often and who are more able (and would prefer) to make plans several months ahead of time.

All I'm saying is that we all have different opinions about this. One opinion does not rule over the other. It's really the host's decision as to how far out he or she wants to plan the meet. If others think several months is too early, no one is forcing them to vote on a date or make a commitment.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: noelbotevera on October 11, 2016, 07:18:38 PM
I think I might opt out of this meet. I could catch it on my way back from Boston (if my brother makes it into MIT), but i think it's more likely that I go to the meet in NYC.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: vdeane on October 11, 2016, 07:38:12 PM
I definitely have noticed a larger number of people traveling long distances to meets than in previous years, though part of that could be me attending more of them.  It seems to be unpredictable, though, which meets will become big.

I think all the meets are going to end up scheduling themselves around Alaska next year, because it's just that unique.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: 74/171FAN on October 11, 2016, 08:17:11 PM
Quote from: vdeane on October 11, 2016, 07:38:12 PM
I definitely have noticed a larger number of people traveling long distances to meets than in previous years, though part of that could be me attending more of them.  It seems to be unpredictable, though, which meets will become big.

I think all the meets are going to end up scheduling themselves around Alaska next year, because it's just that unique.

I can see that.  I definitely did not expect to possibly be the person that traveled the longest distance to your meet a few weeks ago.

Personally, after driving ten hours from my parents' house in VA to Florence, KY, a couple years ago for my friend's wedding, I believe I became a bit hesitant to travel super-long distances due to not realizing how much it would really take out of me before that.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: cl94 on October 11, 2016, 08:21:45 PM
Quote from: vdeane on October 11, 2016, 07:38:12 PM
I think all the meets are going to end up scheduling themselves around Alaska next year, because it's just that unique.

Definitely. That being said, shortly after you guys decide, I'm making a decision so anyone who would need a hotel room can have a chance at getting one for a decent rate nearby. Short notice rates around those parts are insane in the summer.

Quote from: 74/171FAN on October 11, 2016, 08:17:11 PM
Personally, after driving ten hours from my parents' house in VA to Florence, KY, a couple years ago for my friend's wedding, I believe I became a bit hesitant to travel super-long distances due to not realizing how much it would really take out of me before that.

Yeah, that's how I'm feeling right now after driving to and from the Birmingham meet by myself even with a hotel stop each way. Putting a couple thousand miles on the car is tiring.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: froggie on October 12, 2016, 10:32:13 AM
Quote from: hbelkinsWitness the increased popularity announcing of post-meet events like evening meals or sporting events.

FTFY, because we've always had such post-meet events.  What you see more of these days is them being announced ahead of time instead of being spur-of-the-moment as they tended to be.

Quote from: vdeaneI think all the meets are going to end up scheduling themselves around Alaska next year, because it's just that unique.

A Twin Cities meet will be the exception to that, because it will (unless someone else does the planning/execution) be dependent on when my wife and I get out to Minnesota, which is already a narrowed timeframe.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: vdeane on October 12, 2016, 01:28:36 PM
Perhaps Alaska can be scheduled in relation to Twin Cites?  The two would seem to dovetail nicely for anyone who's driving the whole way to Fairbanks.  In any case, I hope to attend Twin Cities if I do not decide to go to Alaska (I would hope that I could make Twin Cities and Lexington my two long range trips next year in that event).
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: cl94 on October 12, 2016, 02:12:45 PM
I'm probably going to plan this thing around Twin Cities as well unless it falls during the last week of July, in which case I must be in Troy. That's the long-distance meet I plan to get to and I can do it without too much time in hotels thanks to family in Buffalo.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: hbelkins on October 12, 2016, 03:25:13 PM
Quote from: froggie on October 12, 2016, 10:32:13 AM
A Twin Cities meet will be the exception to that, because it will (unless someone else does the planning/execution) be dependent on when my wife and I get out to Minnesota, which is already a narrowed timeframe.

I've never been there, so that's one I'd definitely be interested in attending -- that, and a Florida meet if Alex does one.

Quote from: vdeane on October 12, 2016, 01:28:36 PM(I would hope that I could make Twin Cities and Lexington my two long range trips next year in that event).

I still struggle with trying to come up with enough to see in Lexington to do a meet there -- despite the fact that it's only 90 minutes from where I live and I've been going to Lexington all my life.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: cl94 on October 12, 2016, 03:51:16 PM
Quote from: hbelkins on October 12, 2016, 03:25:13 PM
I still struggle with trying to come up with enough to see in Lexington to do a meet there -- despite the fact that it's only 90 minutes from where I live and I've been going to Lexington all my life.

What about Louisville? Bunch of construction out that way.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: hbelkins on October 12, 2016, 06:20:24 PM
Quote from: cl94 on October 12, 2016, 03:51:16 PM
What about Louisville? Bunch of construction out that way.

Just the bridges, which will be done by the end of the year.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: noelbotevera on October 13, 2016, 07:35:44 PM
I voted for July 8th. Usually we do our roadtrips late June/early July. If my brother makes it to MIT I might be able to do this roadmeet if I manage to make this coincide with some other plans I have outside of Boston. I'm also hoping to make my second appearance at a meet in another state over 200 miles from home.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: Rothman on October 14, 2016, 09:36:52 AM
Not that I've attended a whole lot of meets, but I've yet to attend one that has felt "too big."

Voted for later in July; I've got a wedding to attend on the Pacific Coast (Oregon) in late June that I'm hoping to turn into a multiple-week-long road trip.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: cl94 on October 20, 2016, 01:06:05 PM
After taking a drive through the area a couple days ago, might be worth adding a couple stops in Pawlet, VT and Shushan to the potential route. Pawlet has a bunch of really old signs and Shushan is a treasure trove, including a button copy "stop on red signal" crossbuck and the really old diamond that predates the crossbuck (https://www.google.com/maps/@43.093623,-73.3436592,3a,39.3y,83.05h,91.4t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sjWylAIRz_pHJOOGskkdYMQ!2e0!7i13312!8i6656). The amount of old stuff in that area is nothing short of amazing.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: Roadgeek Adam on October 20, 2016, 01:50:16 PM
Shushan is a major delay, no offense. it's a 40 mile drive between Lake George Village and Shushan. I feel like that should be a post-meet trip.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: cl94 on October 20, 2016, 01:53:52 PM
Quote from: Roadgeek Adam on October 20, 2016, 01:50:16 PM
Shushan is a major delay, no offense. it's a 40 mile drive between Lake George Village and Shushan. I feel like that should be a post-meet trip.

Yeah, you're probably right. Doing the covered bridges and Shushan as a post-meet would allow more time in the Adirondacks.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: Roadgeek Adam on October 20, 2016, 02:21:42 PM
Outside of Canada Street (9/9N), NY 912Q, what else did you have in mind for the meet?
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: cl94 on October 20, 2016, 02:43:09 PM
Quote from: Roadgeek Adam on October 20, 2016, 02:21:42 PM
Outside of Canada Street (9/9N), NY 912Q, what else did you have in mind for the meet?

Hadley bridges, the Stewart's Bridge Dam, NY 418, Warrensburg's truss bridges, old signs on Washington CRs 35/36, Hudson Falls/Fort Edward bridges over the Hudson, US 9 over the Hudson, which has a walking path underneath to view the falls and Cooper's Cave. I'd probably get a run through Downtown Glens Falls, which still has a decent amount of old signs and the infamous NY 9L end sign several blocks before the actual end (dates to when stuff was one way downtown). Not far from there might be the worst speed limit signs on a public road (https://www.google.com/maps/@43.3219702,-73.6652256,3a,49.2y,288.09h,84.3t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sea4iO2jlszzRK0Ku8-0XvQ!2e0!7i13312!8i6656). A possible "non-roads" would be the old Feeder Canal locks in Hudson Falls and the drive out to Hadley would likely include Saratoga CR 24 and a drive past the former site of the International Paper mill and the weird grade crossing outside of it. Canada Street and the beach area, while it will be congested, is a must as it was just redone and there are quite a few erroneous NY 9 shields.

I know a lot of meets focus on new stuff, but I figured we'd try and see a lot of what is unique to the region. Plus, it's not like New York has much in the way of new construction outside of NY 17 and Tappan Zee.

The biggest problem is that I could really make the stuff in Eastern Washington County and SW Vermont into its own meet, but the area is so rural that the meeting location would need to be quite far away. Probably best to do that as a 2-hour post meet for interested individuals. Also a shame that Glens Falls recently did a bunch of signal replacements, because some of the stuff there was...um...interesting.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: Roadgeek Adam on October 20, 2016, 03:01:27 PM
Canada Street is always congested in the summer. :P

Regardless, everything on the itinerary looks good. Personally, I would include a trip to Riparius, but that is up to you. (I think the group photo being at Riparius would be great.)
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: cl94 on October 20, 2016, 03:40:56 PM
Quote from: Roadgeek Adam on October 20, 2016, 03:01:27 PM
Canada Street is always congested in the summer. :P

Regardless, everything on the itinerary looks good. Personally, I would include a trip to Riparius, but that is up to you. (I think the group photo being at Riparius would be great.)

I was thinking have the picture at the Bow Bridge (you won't find it anywhere else), but Riparius is a good suggestion for a stop. Not too far out of the way and they did a pretty good job of making that bridge look old. Actually would tie in quite well, as CR 11 is a good way to cut over to 9N and the view is amazing.

I'm well aware of how bad Canada Street is and I'm prepared to add 20 minutes to whatever Google Maps spits out. I grew up 2 blocks from one of the restaurants I'm considering. I wouldn't have it on the route if it wasn't redone this year and they didn't do a major reconstruction on CR 6.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: Roadgeek Adam on October 20, 2016, 03:56:20 PM
Which one if I may ask? I spent many summers in Lake George and know almost every business (even closed ones) in the village.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: Alps on October 20, 2016, 06:32:58 PM
Quote from: cl94 on October 20, 2016, 01:53:52 PM
Quote from: Roadgeek Adam on October 20, 2016, 01:50:16 PM
Shushan is a major delay, no offense. it's a 40 mile drive between Lake George Village and Shushan. I feel like that should be a post-meet trip.

Yeah, you're probably right. Doing the covered bridges and Shushan as a post-meet would allow more time in the Adirondacks.
Or a pre-meet. If it's going to take 2-3 hours to get down there and poke around, that's something that can be done in the 8-11 window easily, but you'll run out of daylight post-meet.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: cl94 on October 20, 2016, 06:49:39 PM
Quote from: Alps on October 20, 2016, 06:32:58 PM
Quote from: cl94 on October 20, 2016, 01:53:52 PM
Quote from: Roadgeek Adam on October 20, 2016, 01:50:16 PM
Shushan is a major delay, no offense. it's a 40 mile drive between Lake George Village and Shushan. I feel like that should be a post-meet trip.

Yeah, you're probably right. Doing the covered bridges and Shushan as a post-meet would allow more time in the Adirondacks.
Or a pre-meet. If it's going to take 2-3 hours to get down there and poke around, that's something that can be done in the 8-11 window easily, but you'll run out of daylight post-meet.

Good point. That would also allow us to meet up somewhere at the southern end of the fun stuff and work our way up to Glens Falls and limit deadheading. The area is full of cool bridges and old signs, but it's literally in the middle of nowhere. Definitely one of the highest concentrations of covered bridges out there.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: froggie on October 20, 2016, 07:15:39 PM
Quote from: cl94The biggest problem is that I could really make the stuff in Eastern Washington County and SW Vermont into its own meet, but the area is so rural that the meeting location would need to be quite far away.

Not necessarily.  Besides a number of local restaurants, there's a Chili's in Bennington.  Doug has also held a meet in Bennington proper in the past.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: tckma on October 24, 2016, 03:43:32 PM
Quote from: froggie on October 20, 2016, 07:15:39 PM
Quote from: cl94The biggest problem is that I could really make the stuff in Eastern Washington County and SW Vermont into its own meet, but the area is so rural that the meeting location would need to be quite far away.

Not necessarily.  Besides a number of local restaurants, there's a Chili's in Bennington.  Doug has also held a meet in Bennington proper in the past.

Rutland?  Montpelier?
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: cl94 on October 24, 2016, 03:59:08 PM
A Rutland meet is definitely a possibility for the future. That would definitely be a bridge-focused meet.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: froggie on October 24, 2016, 06:10:23 PM
Not much in the way of non-run-of-the-mill bridges in the Rutland area, unless you range up to Pittsford.  Which bridges did you have in mind?
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: cl94 on October 24, 2016, 07:45:56 PM
Quote from: froggie on October 24, 2016, 06:10:23 PM
Not much in the way of non-run-of-the-mill bridges in the Rutland area, unless you range up to Pittsford.  Which bridges did you have in mind?

I was thinking of the covered bridges SE and N of Rutland, including the 4 in Pittsford. If it didn't take so long to drive across the state, I'd say the ones in Woodstock and Quechee as well
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: cpzilliacus on October 26, 2016, 03:13:04 PM
Quote from: cl94 on October 24, 2016, 07:45:56 PM
Quote from: froggie on October 24, 2016, 06:10:23 PM
Not much in the way of non-run-of-the-mill bridges in the Rutland area, unless you range up to Pittsford.  Which bridges did you have in mind?

I was thinking of the covered bridges SE and N of Rutland, including the 4 in Pittsford. If it didn't take so long to drive across the state, I'd say the ones in Woodstock and Quechee as well

Quechee is pretty cool. 
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: froggie on October 26, 2016, 03:24:31 PM
A Quechee/WRJ-based meet could be a consideration.  And is close enough to where I could scout and run it.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: cl94 on October 26, 2016, 03:30:52 PM
If you want to run something out there, be my guest. There is quite a bit of stuff out that way and you could probably include the new US 4 bridge over the Connecticut River that replaced the Bailey bridge.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: vdeane on October 26, 2016, 07:57:19 PM
Sounds like a replay of the 2013 Lebanon meet, minus Tom Tom.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: froggie on October 26, 2016, 10:15:43 PM
...which involved what, specifically? (since I was on deployment for it)
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: cl94 on October 26, 2016, 10:23:48 PM
We could get enough new people to make it worthwhile. I wasn't there, either.

As far as another possibility for a future year, I'll throw Kingston, NY out there. Quite a few oddities in that area that I don't think will be disappearing anytime soon.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: hbelkins on October 26, 2016, 10:45:39 PM
I couldn't go to the Tom Tom meet for some now-unknown reason (scheduling conflict with something at work, I think). So anything on the tour would be new to me, provided I haven't already seen it during one of my few forays into Vermont.

Kingston has some old signs, plenty of button copy, a couple of circular KY-NJ-DE-MS-IA style 9W signs, and an interstate that ends at a roundabout on one end and a traffic light at the other and has no connections in between.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: cl94 on October 26, 2016, 10:55:57 PM
Quote from: hbelkins on October 26, 2016, 10:45:39 PM
Kingston has some old signs, plenty of button copy, a couple of circular KY-NJ-DE-MS-IA style 9W signs, and an interstate that ends at a roundabout on one end and a traffic light at the other and has no connections in between.

All of the old signs were still there as of today. There's also a few covered bridges nearby (including one Burr Arch that is the second-oldest covered bridge in the state), a suspension bridge, and a boatload of the old county outline CR markers. Nothing there will go anywhere unless someone crashes into them.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: vdeane on October 27, 2016, 01:05:53 PM
The Lebanon meet started at Tom Tom with pizza, a presentation, and a tour of their office (and "street view" car).  We attempted to see the I-89 bridges over the river but there wasn't a place to stop and see them.  We saw the Bailey Bridge and the Quechee and Woodstock covered bridges.  We ended with a stop at Quechee Gorge before heading back.  The car I was in stopped at the train station because Adam Moss was with us.  There was a post-meet dinner somewhere, which I wasn't at because I wanted to start heading back to Rome while there was still at least a little light out.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: cl94 on January 19, 2017, 08:45:11 PM
I'm going to tentatively schedule this thing for June 24. It'll be less crazy (New York schools are just getting out), easier for people to get hotel rooms and likely not as hot/humid. If there is interest, I'm thinking of doing a pre-meet in Rensselaer, Washington and Bennington Counties focusing on covered bridges (5 to be exact) and the goodies in Shushan. Meet up in Schaghticoke or at one of the church parking lots closer to Buskirk and make our way north to minimize deadheading.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: noelbotevera on January 19, 2017, 09:32:00 PM
I'm disqualified. This meet is well outside my reach (7 hours or so to get here - not a problem for everyone else, but a problem for me).
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: dgolub on January 20, 2017, 08:55:38 AM
I'm definitely interested and will come as long as I can make the logistics work out.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: froggie on January 20, 2017, 10:23:18 AM
Since I didn't mention anything before, I'm taking a wait-and-see for that day.  Theoretically, I'll be around, but I don't know what summertime things may be thrown my way for that weekend.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: Rothman on January 20, 2017, 11:52:01 AM
Gah.  I'm out of town that day.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: cl94 on January 20, 2017, 11:57:10 AM
I could theoretically push it back to July 8, but it would a) be hotter and b) more crowded with tourists
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: cl94 on January 20, 2017, 12:39:39 PM
Alright, I updated the poll to only include 2 dates. Choose whichever dates work for you. If both dates work and you want to attend, check both. I'll choose whichever has more people.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: vdeane on January 21, 2017, 09:28:08 PM
I voted for July 8; judging on past years, there's about a 50/50 chance I'll be able to make June 24 as well.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: baugh17 on January 22, 2017, 11:54:12 PM
Quote from: cl94 on January 19, 2017, 08:45:11 PM
I'm going to tentatively schedule this thing for June 24. It'll be less crazy (New York schools are just getting out), easier for people to get hotel rooms and likely not as hot/humid. If there is interest, I'm thinking of doing a pre-meet in Rensselaer, Washington and Bennington Counties focusing on covered bridges (5 to be exact) and the goodies in Shushan. Meet up in Schaghticoke or at one of the church parking lots closer to Buskirk and make our way north to minimize deadheading.

I'm open to either date.  But just wanted to mention that while, yes, schools will just be letting out for the summer, most upstate New York districts will probably be holding their graduation ceremonies the weekend of the 24th which may make getting a hotel room tricky for those who may need one.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: cl94 on January 23, 2017, 12:07:17 AM
Quote from: baugh17 on January 22, 2017, 11:54:12 PM
Quote from: cl94 on January 19, 2017, 08:45:11 PM
I'm going to tentatively schedule this thing for June 24. It'll be less crazy (New York schools are just getting out), easier for people to get hotel rooms and likely not as hot/humid. If there is interest, I'm thinking of doing a pre-meet in Rensselaer, Washington and Bennington Counties focusing on covered bridges (5 to be exact) and the goodies in Shushan. Meet up in Schaghticoke or at one of the church parking lots closer to Buskirk and make our way north to minimize deadheading.

I'm open to either date.  But just wanted to mention that while, yes, schools will just be letting out for the summer, most upstate New York districts will probably be holding their graduation ceremonies the weekend of the 24th which may make getting a hotel room tricky for those who may need one.

I completely forgot about that. Thanks.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: Rothman on January 23, 2017, 08:54:02 AM
I don't know how much of an effect high school graduations will affect hotel reservations.  I'd imagine most grandparents or whatnot stay with their families.  Also, at least Bethlehem Central's commencement will be on the 23rd, so the strange schedule this year may not affect the weekend much.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: cl94 on January 23, 2017, 02:08:03 PM
Looks like the response for July 8 was overwhelming. Combining that with the June date being HS graduation weekend, I will set a firm date of July 8. Lunch will be 11-11:30 at a restaurant on/just north of NY 254 (likely Harvest Restaurant, but possibly Pizzeria Uno or Applebee's if they aren't willing to take a reservation) with carpool parking likely at the Hannaford at the intersection of NY 254 and Warren CR 7. I'll make a Facebook event and post to the NE Roads Facebook group this week.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: Alps on January 23, 2017, 08:32:34 PM
Quote from: cl94 on January 23, 2017, 02:08:03 PM
Looks like the response for July 8 was overwhelming. Combining that with the June date being HS graduation weekend, I will set a firm date of July 8. Lunch will be 11-11:30 at a restaurant on/just north of NY 254 (likely Harvest Restaurant, but possibly Pizzeria Uno or Applebee's if they aren't willing to take a reservation) with carpool parking likely at the Hannaford at the intersection of NY 254 and Warren CR 7. I'll make a Facebook event and post to the NE Roads Facebook group this week.
Considering how close to Glens Falls you're starting, I'd suggest that there are many great restaurants in that town that you should look into before going to a chain. Brew pubs (as long as they allow under 21) can be a popular lunch choice.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: cl94 on January 23, 2017, 08:39:31 PM
Quote from: Alps on January 23, 2017, 08:32:34 PM
Quote from: cl94 on January 23, 2017, 02:08:03 PM
Looks like the response for July 8 was overwhelming. Combining that with the June date being HS graduation weekend, I will set a firm date of July 8. Lunch will be 11-11:30 at a restaurant on/just north of NY 254 (likely Harvest Restaurant, but possibly Pizzeria Uno or Applebee's if they aren't willing to take a reservation) with carpool parking likely at the Hannaford at the intersection of NY 254 and Warren CR 7. I'll make a Facebook event and post to the NE Roads Facebook group this week.
Considering how close to Glens Falls you're starting, I'd suggest that there are many great restaurants in that town that you should look into before going to a chain. Brew pubs (as long as they allow under 21) can be a popular lunch choice.

Duh. Then I've got a better idea: Cooper's Cave Ale Company. Unlike the other brewpub in Glens Falls, they don't have cheesy policies to get around paying minimum wage. Better food and parking as well. I know they take reservations.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: cl94 on January 23, 2017, 09:47:13 PM
Facebook event has been created: https://www.facebook.com/events/809441765876286/
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: Alps on February 12, 2017, 10:22:42 PM
This is now the designated cool meet of 2017 that everyone should travel to. See you there, Michiganders and Tennesseeans*!

* Pooing is allowed in NY.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: cl94 on February 13, 2017, 12:00:51 PM
I plan to have a draft (unscouted) set of meet notes up on Dropbox by the end of the month. This way, if there's anything in particular people wanted to see that isn't on the route, we have a chance of adding it.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: jpi on February 13, 2017, 05:18:28 PM
Quote from: Alps on February 12, 2017, 10:22:42 PM
This is now the designated cool meet of 2017 that everyone should travel to. See you there, Michiganders and Tennesseeans*!

Unfortunetly, this Tennessean and his wife will have to skip this one at this time since we are planning on going out west just a couple weeks after this date.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: Alps on February 13, 2017, 11:59:53 PM
Quote from: jpi on February 13, 2017, 05:18:28 PM
Quote from: Alps on February 12, 2017, 10:22:42 PM
This is now the designated cool meet of 2017 that everyone should travel to. See you there, Michiganders and Tennesseeans*!

Unfortunetly, this Tennessean and his wife will have to skip this one at this time since we are planning on going out west just a couple weeks after this date.
That's a shame. Good luck with the pooing.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: codyg1985 on February 14, 2017, 08:48:33 AM
Any date settled for this meet? Poll is leaning towards July 8th.

I think in my thread I put July 8th.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: cl94 on February 14, 2017, 10:56:40 AM
Quote from: codyg1985 on February 14, 2017, 08:48:33 AM
Any date settled for this meet? Poll is leaning towards July 8th.

I think in my thread I put July 8th.

July 8 is official at this point.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: cl94 on February 14, 2017, 02:27:12 PM
I'm going to say this now and I'll repeat it later: if you want a hotel in Queensbury/Glens Falls/Lake George, the time to reserve is now. Stuff for summer weekends fills up fast.

That being said, I strongly recommend staying in Albany, Clifton Park or Malta. A lot cheaper, more food options, probably closer to where you live, closer to the pre-meet (which will feature a gold mine of covered bridges and old signs) and you'll be able to get a room whenever up to the day of the meet.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: Dougtone on February 16, 2017, 07:26:34 PM
Quote from: cl94 on January 23, 2017, 08:39:31 PM
Quote from: Alps on January 23, 2017, 08:32:34 PM
Quote from: cl94 on January 23, 2017, 02:08:03 PM
Looks like the response for July 8 was overwhelming. Combining that with the June date being HS graduation weekend, I will set a firm date of July 8. Lunch will be 11-11:30 at a restaurant on/just north of NY 254 (likely Harvest Restaurant, but possibly Pizzeria Uno or Applebee's if they aren't willing to take a reservation) with carpool parking likely at the Hannaford at the intersection of NY 254 and Warren CR 7. I'll make a Facebook event and post to the NE Roads Facebook group this week.
Considering how close to Glens Falls you're starting, I'd suggest that there are many great restaurants in that town that you should look into before going to a chain. Brew pubs (as long as they allow under 21) can be a popular lunch choice.

Duh. Then I've got a better idea: Cooper's Cave Ale Company. Unlike the other brewpub in Glens Falls, they don't have cheesy policies to get around paying minimum wage. Better food and parking as well. I know they take reservations.

I can vouch that Cooper's Cave is a great choice. I've been there before and quite enjoyed their happy hour selection.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: cl94 on February 27, 2017, 10:18:20 PM
DRAFT meet notes here. I'm thinking of adding about 20 minutes in there for some more sights and there will be much more background info. Let me know what you think.


https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B-lG3Wh9faM8NzdzMUtxYW1IYTg/view?usp=sharing
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: froggie on February 28, 2017, 10:24:14 PM
Maps would be useful.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: cl94 on February 28, 2017, 10:27:25 PM
Quote from: froggie on February 28, 2017, 10:24:14 PM
Maps would be useful.

I was planning to throw those in the next version. Wanted to get an outline out for comment.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: froggie on March 01, 2017, 08:54:35 AM
It would be much easier to visualize your outline for comment with some maps, especially for those not immediately familiar with the area.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: codyg1985 on March 01, 2017, 09:36:24 AM
I would put commentary/information about the Coopers Cave Bridge and other attractions in a separate place in the itinerary. I am trying to think of how to handle that for my Jackson meet (right now I just have an itinerary).

Are you adding information on Leg 3 of the main tour later?

Speaking of legs, I would renumber the ones as part of the main meet starting at Leg 7 instead of going back to Leg 1. I could see it being confusing having duplicate numbers for legs.

Also, as froggie suggested, maps would be good, too.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: cl94 on March 01, 2017, 02:50:10 PM
Thanks for the suggestions. I'll incorporate them. I'm definitely adding more info later, but again, just wanted to outline the thing.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: cl94 on March 24, 2017, 11:05:18 AM
A car show was just announced for the day of the meet in Lake George. For this reason, the meet route will be rerouted and we will not be seeing the recent reconstruction in Lake George. I have a couple of other things planned that should keep the tour just as interesting.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: hbelkins on May 09, 2017, 02:34:22 PM
Do we have a definite gathering point or lunch location yet? Since I can't go to Mississippi this weekend, I'm looking to possibly pencil this one in as a replacement. I'd like to start planning a route (including the suggestions I got for getting into and out of Suffolk and Nassau counties as painlessly as possible) and accommodations in case I do go.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: cl94 on May 09, 2017, 05:27:47 PM
Quote from: hbelkins on May 09, 2017, 02:34:22 PM
Do we have a definite gathering point or lunch location yet? Since I can't go to Mississippi this weekend, I'm looking to possibly pencil this one in as a replacement. I'd like to start planning a route (including the suggestions I got for getting into and out of Suffolk and Nassau counties as painlessly as possible) and accommodations in case I do go.

Yes. Cooper's Cave Ale Company, 2 Sagamore St, Glens Falls.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: tckma on May 10, 2017, 03:29:10 PM
Quote from: hbelkins on May 09, 2017, 02:34:22 PM
Do we have a definite gathering point or lunch location yet? Since I can't go to Mississippi this weekend, I'm looking to possibly pencil this one in as a replacement. I'd like to start planning a route (including the suggestions I got for getting into and out of Suffolk and Nassau counties as painlessly as possible) and accommodations in case I do go.

The majority of my family lives in Suffolk County; my parents are the oddballs in Nassau... as I hate Lawn Guyland and decided to move elsewhere for better job opportunities, I've been forced to find creative ways to get onto and off of the Island without incurring lots of tolls or lots of traffic.  (It seems that you can pick one or the other -- less tolls or less traffic -- but not both).

Your best option, though I won't say it's at all painless (or cheap!  Bring LOTS of toll money), when coming up from Kentucky, is to take the NJ Turnpike to exit 10, then take NJ440/NY440 over the Outerbridge crossing, then cross Staten Island on I-278, cross the Verrazano bridge, then take the Belt Parkway around to the Southern State or Northern State.  That goes for either direction, heading onto, or off of, Lawn Guyland.

If you have the time and the inclination after the meet to go around the long way, I'd suggest going through Connecticut and crossing the Long Island Sound on one of the ferries.  When I lived in Massachusetts, I would endeavour to take the Cross-Sound Ferry from New London to Orient Point and the end of NY-25.  You can even go around NYC entirely if you choose to do this -- probably a good idea.  But the CSF requires you to make reservations and purchase tickets in advance.  When I last did this, at least 10 years ago, a round-trip ticket on the ferry for car and driver cost $70.  The ferry ride takes between 90 minutes to 2 hours, if I remember correctly.  I never took the Bridgeport ferry as it didn't seem to avoid high-traffic areas for me.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: 74/171FAN on May 10, 2017, 04:04:34 PM
I still have this marked as tentative, but right now I doubt I will be coming to this one.  I will be heading to Schroon Lake next month anyway for a church retreat.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: hbelkins on May 11, 2017, 12:00:21 PM
Quote from: tckma on May 10, 2017, 03:29:10 PM
Your best option, though I won't say it's at all painless (or cheap!  Bring LOTS of toll money), when coming up from Kentucky, is to take the NJ Turnpike to exit 10, then take NJ440/NY440 over the Outerbridge crossing, then cross Staten Island on I-278, cross the Verrazano bridge, then take the Belt Parkway around to the Southern State or Northern State.  That goes for either direction, heading onto, or off of, Lawn Guyland.

This would be a Sunday afternoon, returning home endeavor, coming down the Taconic from the Albany area. I'll have my E-ZPass mounted and ready, and judging from the feedback I got when I queried the forum about this earlier, my best bet for getting out of the island and out of the metro is to make my way to the GW Bridge, probably accessing it from the Deegan to avoid as much of the Cross-Bronx as possible.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: jpi on May 11, 2017, 05:12:16 PM
Best of luck and safe travels H.B.  :D I clinched Suffolk and Nassau counties at the end of the NYC meet nearly 3 years ago, I drove back on a Monday evening right after peak out bound rush hour. I stayed in L.I. Sunday night, did some sight seeing during the morning and afternoon, then by 7pm after dinner at a nice diner (forget the name) I left West Islip, took the southern state PKWY to Southern Belt PKY to I-278 to NJTPK North to I-78 west to my stay in Harrisburg that night, it took me about 4 hours to get to Harrisburg with minimal stop and go traffic and 1 stop for fuel\ stretch, just heavy but steady moving traffic and "hammered down" once I was on I-78 west. And yes make sure your EZPass account is loaded up.  ;-)
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: cl94 on May 11, 2017, 06:09:40 PM
Definitely make sure your account is loaded up, because all of the New York agencies discriminate and you'll be stuck paying the ridiculous cash rates. Alongside the Northway, the Taconic is probably the best long stretch of limited-access highway in the northeast. The views are breathtaking and the landscape architects did a wonderful job. Just watch out for deer.

If coming from the meet, I'd recommend the following route if you're taking the Taconic down. Avoids some of the choke points and the designated 53 foot truck route:
- Taconic/Sprain/Bronx River Parkways to Cross County Parkway
- Cross County to Hutchison Parkway South
- Hutch/I-678 south across the Whitestone Bridge to Cross Island Parkway
- Cross Island Parkway to Grand Central Parkway east.

From there, really depends on how far you want to get into Suffolk. I'd say take either NY 110 or the Sagtikos Parkway down to the Southern State and head back east on that, unless you want to head out to the Hamptons (STRONGLY discouraged that weekend). As far as crossing the Hudson, the Verrazano is by far the easiest if coming from the Island and heading southwest (take the Belt around the south side of Brooklyn), but you'll shell out an additional $8.50 in tolls. Would allow you to check out the Goethals or Bayonne construction and the new bridges along the Belt. If you want to cross at the GW, I'd strongly suggest accessing it from Harlem River Drive instead of the Deegan (which is what we typically do if taking the GW). Don't have to deal with the merge on the Hamilton Bridge or the slow trucks. Get to HRD via the Triboro Bridge, Queensboro Bridge or Midtown Tunnel.

I probably don't need to mention this, but we cannot say it enough: make sure you don't have commercial plates if you're taking any parkways. They don't care if you go 20 over, but one commercial plate or anything that looks commercial in your vehicle and the cops will be all over you. A family member was pulled over a couple decades ago for having a box of catalogs in the car.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: Duke87 on May 11, 2017, 07:50:15 PM
The route cl94 recommends for getting to Long Island from upstate shouldn't be too bad on a Sunday morning but it will get progressively worse as the day goes on. Try to be across the East River before noon if you can.

On your way back west, you're almost guaranteed to hit traffic no matter what route you take, and it's going to be a question of which is worse that particular day - which isn't all that predictable. Check live traffic before coming back from LI.


I would also caution, if you are going to the GWB, the Deegan is not necessarily any bargain compared to the Cross Bronx right now on account of construction that has it narrowed down to two lanes with lots of bumps and no shoulders in the Bronx Terminal Market area. You may be better off with the Harlem River Drive - which also allows you to save $8.50 in tolls if you take the Queensboro Bridge (bonus: this means clinching part of NY 25 if you haven't already been on it).
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: vdeane on May 11, 2017, 08:35:57 PM
Plus the ramps from the Deegan to the Cross-Bronx and GWB tend to be backed up.  I have never not seen a line of stopped cars there.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: cl94 on May 11, 2017, 09:39:22 PM
Quote from: Duke87 on May 11, 2017, 07:50:15 PM
The route cl94 recommends for getting to Long Island from upstate shouldn't be too bad on a Sunday morning but it will get progressively worse as the day goes on. Try to be across the East River before noon if you can.

On your way back west, you're almost guaranteed to hit traffic no matter what route you take, and it's going to be a question of which is worse that particular day - which isn't all that predictable. Check live traffic before coming back from LI.


I would also caution, if you are going to the GWB, the Deegan is not necessarily any bargain compared to the Cross Bronx right now on account of construction that has it narrowed down to two lanes with lots of bumps and no shoulders in the Bronx Terminal Market area. You may be better off with the Harlem River Drive - which also allows you to save $8.50 in tolls if you take the Queensboro Bridge (bonus: this means clinching part of NY 25 if you haven't already been on it).

Bolded for emphasis. The bridges are the choke point here. It should be smooth sailing until you're almost to the Bronx, though. I forgot about the Deegan construction - I typically use HRD, BRP or the Hutch, so haven't been on that thing in a couple years. Waze is your friend here.

Quote from: vdeane on May 11, 2017, 08:35:57 PM
Plus the ramps from the Deegan to the Cross-Bronx and GWB tend to be backed up.  I have never not seen a line of stopped cars there.

Seconded and I've been going through that area semi-often for my entire life. That interchange is one of the worst in the region in terms of backups. Trucks have a hard time on the grades and there's a nasty weave just west of the interchange.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: cl94 on June 10, 2017, 06:01:56 PM
I created an event for the optional pre-meet in southern Washington County (https://www.facebook.com/events/1758921027733074) 2 hours before the meet. Some of the stuff we'll stop by is quite remote and you'll get to see a few things that you may have never seen before. I designed this thing to be convenient if you're staying in Albany (like most attendees probably are).



Finalized notes for the main meet and pre-meet will be up within the next week or two
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: hbelkins on June 20, 2017, 12:24:06 PM
I'm officially backing out of this one. The biggest allure of traveling to the northeast was getting the two Long Island counties I need to finish off New York, but I'll save that for another time.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet?
Post by: froggie on June 20, 2017, 12:30:45 PM
Could the OP be updated to show the date/time/location chosen?
Title: Re: 2017 Glens Falls Meet - July 8, 2016
Post by: cl94 on June 20, 2017, 08:56:30 PM
Quote from: froggie on June 20, 2017, 12:30:45 PM
Could the OP be updated to show the date/time/location chosen?

Done
Title: Re: 2017 Glens Falls Meet - July 8
Post by: Rothman on June 20, 2017, 10:06:14 PM
Quote from: cl94 on June 20, 2017, 08:56:30 PM
Quote from: froggie on June 20, 2017, 12:30:45 PM
Could the OP be updated to show the date/time/location chosen?

Done
Time?  Location?
Title: Re: 2017 Glens Falls Meet - July 8 (11:30 AM, Cooper's Cave Ale Company)
Post by: vdeane on June 21, 2017, 08:48:50 PM
It's in the thread title, but why was the meet renamed from Southeast Adirondacks to Glens Falls?  I'm not aware of a requirement that the meet be named for the town where lunch is (see: the NYC meet in NJ; day 2 didn't even enter NY).
Title: Re: 2017 Glens Falls Meet - July 8 (11:30 AM, Cooper's Cave Ale Company)
Post by: cl94 on June 21, 2017, 08:54:14 PM
Quote from: vdeane on June 21, 2017, 08:48:50 PM
It's in the thread title, but why was the meet renamed from Southeast Adirondacks to Glens Falls?  I'm not aware of a requirement that the meet be named for the town where lunch is (see: the NYC meet in NJ; day 2 didn't even enter NY).

Because somebody wanted a defined location.
Title: Re: 2017 Glens Falls Meet - July 8 (11:30 AM, Cooper's Cave Ale Company)
Post by: vdeane on June 21, 2017, 09:38:34 PM
Quote from: cl94 on June 21, 2017, 08:54:14 PM
Quote from: vdeane on June 21, 2017, 08:48:50 PM
It's in the thread title, but why was the meet renamed from Southeast Adirondacks to Glens Falls?  I'm not aware of a requirement that the meet be named for the town where lunch is (see: the NYC meet in NJ; day 2 didn't even enter NY).

Because somebody wanted a defined location.
When they wanted a defined location, I believe they meant something along the lines of "the meet will be at 11:30 AM at Cooper's Cave Ale Company in Glens Falls" in the body of the first post.
Title: Re: 2017 Glens Falls Meet - July 8 (11:30 AM, Cooper's Cave Ale Company)
Post by: froggie on June 21, 2017, 09:45:24 PM
^ Yes, that's what I was expecting....in the body of the OP, not in the title.  That's general SOP around here.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet - July 8
Post by: cl94 on June 22, 2017, 11:27:28 PM
Sorry about that, misunderstood what you were talking about. Updated accordingly.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet - July 8
Post by: cl94 on July 02, 2017, 02:23:28 PM
Couple of quick things in the week before the meet:

- If you're planning to attend, please RSVP on the Facebook event (https://www.facebook.com/events/809441765876286/) or send me a PM before the end of Wednesday so I know you're coming. I'd like to try and make a restaurant reservation Thursday. If you think you'll be there but won't know for certain until the day of or a day before, let me know as well. I don't think we'll have any trouble getting a table at the restaurant if we're there when it opens, but I'd rather not take chances.
- If you were at yesterday's Goethals meet, I know whether or not you are coming, so you need not RSVP.
- The pre-meet will be canceled if we do not have at least 2 attendees other than myself RSVP in some fashion by 8 PM Friday night (Why 2? One person could follow the route on their own pretty easily). Again, not a part of the main meet as I know several people are driving in the morning of from quite a distance away, but the Shushan stuff isn't really enough for its own meet and it's a must-visit location for roadgeeks.
- If you have 2-way radios, it might be a good idea to bring them so you have a line to me or another person familiar with the area. I tried to write clear directions and stuff is generally signed well, but a decent portion of the meet is in an area without cell service.
- Current forecast is low 70s with scattered rain. Nothing on the tour involves much (if any) time on unpaved surfaces. If the rain isn't too bad, it will benefit us by keeping some of the tourist traffic away and reducing the number of bugs at the various stops.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet - July 8
Post by: Alps on July 02, 2017, 04:53:40 PM
Quote from: cl94 on July 02, 2017, 02:23:28 PM
Couple of quick things in the week before the meet:

- If you're planning to attend, please RSVP on the Facebook event (https://www.facebook.com/events/809441765876286/) or send me a PM before the end of Wednesday so I know you're coming. I'd like to try and make a restaurant reservation Thursday. If you think you'll be there but won't know for certain until the day of or a day before, let me know as well. I don't think we'll have any trouble getting a table at the restaurant if we're there when it opens, but I'd rather not take chances.
- If you were at yesterday's Goethals meet, I know whether or not you are coming, so you need not RSVP.
- The pre-meet will be canceled if we do not have at least 2 attendees other than myself RSVP in some fashion by 8 PM Friday night (Why 2? One person could follow the route on their own pretty easily). Again, not a part of the main meet as I know several people are driving in the morning of from quite a distance away, but the Shushan stuff isn't really enough for its own meet and it's a must-visit location for roadgeeks.
- If you have 2-way radios, it might be a good idea to bring them so you have a line to me or another person familiar with the area. I tried to write clear directions and stuff is generally signed well, but a decent portion of the meet is in an area without cell service.
- Current forecast is low 70s with scattered rain. Nothing on the tour involves much (if any) time on unpaved surfaces. If the rain isn't too bad, it will benefit us by keeping some of the tourist traffic away and reducing the number of bugs at the various stops.
Also, Flying Chicken on Friday night.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet - July 8
Post by: froggie on July 03, 2017, 08:45:34 AM
At this point, I'm a TBD and probably game-time decision.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet - July 8
Post by: Brandon on July 03, 2017, 09:31:18 AM
I'll be there, but I'm not doing the pre-meet event.  Instead, I'll be visiting the Saratoga Battlefield on the way up from Albany that morning.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet - July 8
Post by: cl94 on July 03, 2017, 03:37:39 PM
Quote from: froggie on July 03, 2017, 08:45:34 AM
At this point, I'm a TBD and probably game-time decision.

Noted, I'll make sure there's a seat for you at the restaurant.

Quote from: Brandon on July 03, 2017, 09:31:18 AM
I'll be there, but I'm not doing the pre-meet event.  Instead, I'll be visiting the Saratoga Battlefield on the way up from Albany that morning.

Definitely worth a visit, especially now that they stopped charging entrance fees, and one of my favorite places in the region. 30-45 minutes from the restaurant. Depending on which route you take from the battlefield to Glens Falls, the surrender location (on NY 29 2 blocks east of US 4/NY 32 in Schuylerville) may be an easy stop.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet - July 8
Post by: Brandon on July 03, 2017, 03:43:45 PM
Quote from: cl94 on July 03, 2017, 03:37:39 PM
Quote from: froggie on July 03, 2017, 08:45:34 AM
At this point, I'm a TBD and probably game-time decision.

Noted, I'll make sure there's a seat for you at the restaurant.

Quote from: Brandon on July 03, 2017, 09:31:18 AM
I'll be there, but I'm not doing the pre-meet event.  Instead, I'll be visiting the Saratoga Battlefield on the way up from Albany that morning.

Definitely worth a visit, especially now that they stopped charging entrance fees, and one of my favorite places in the region. 30-45 minutes from the restaurant. Depending on which route you take from the battlefield to Glens Falls, the surrender location (on NY 29 2 blocks east of US 4/NY 32 in Schuylerville) may be an easy stop.

My ancestor had his farm on part of the battlefield (not in the park though) and fought for the New York Militia during the battle.  That's kinda my first stop there.  :bigass:
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet - July 8
Post by: tckma on July 03, 2017, 10:13:53 PM
Unfortunately I don't think I can make this one either.  Stupid budget!
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet - July 8
Post by: cl94 on July 04, 2017, 04:18:39 PM
I should have a final set of meet notes on here and Facebook tomorrow or Thursday, plus several printed copies. Might not have a printed copy for everyone, but there will definitely be at least 2 for each car. Just want to re-scout the area tomorrow to determine if damage from last weekend's storms will force changes.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet - July 8
Post by: cl94 on July 05, 2017, 09:07:35 PM
Final notes are here (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ZttpFC_jmRJny7xsPk17kqIOaX_I43xYKc2AzMXd5Pw/edit?usp=sharing). Only real change was to the snack/restroom stop- figured Stewart's would be faster than Price Chopper, even if it's slightly out of the way.

Again, let me know here or elsewhere if you plan to attend this (or are thinking about it and are not certain) and I want a FIRM count for the pre-meet by 8 PM EDT Friday. I'm canceling the pre-meet if we don't have at least 2 people other than myself.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet - July 8
Post by: vdeane on July 06, 2017, 11:19:35 PM
Is there any interest in the pre-meet?  I was thinking of attending, if anyone else was going to.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet - July 8
Post by: froggie on July 07, 2017, 12:32:45 PM
Sorry, folks, and apologies to cl94, but I'm out for tomorrow.  Got too much to take care of (including a literature review for thesis) before I leave for Minnesota in 2 weeks.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet - July 8
Post by: Duke87 on July 07, 2017, 03:27:51 PM
I'm passing on the pre-meet so I can clinch roads.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet - July 8
Post by: cl94 on July 07, 2017, 03:52:36 PM
Quote from: froggie on July 07, 2017, 12:32:45 PM
Sorry, folks, and apologies to cl94, but I'm out for tomorrow.  Got too much to take care of (including a literature review for thesis) before I leave for Minnesota in 2 weeks.

Totally understand. I'd say "have fun", but lit review is anything but fun.

Quote from: Duke87 on July 07, 2017, 03:27:51 PM
I'm passing on the pre-meet so I can clinch roads.

Lot of short stuff to clinch in the area. If you grab NY 254 between 9L and Warren St and NY 9L 1) between Lexington and 254 and 2) north of CRs 39/54 as part of your pre-meet clinching, you'll have a clinch of both by the end of the meet. Probably a dozen other things you could easily grab on your way up.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet - July 8
Post by: Duke87 on July 07, 2017, 05:46:48 PM
Quote from: cl94 on July 07, 2017, 03:52:36 PM
Lot of short stuff to clinch in the area. If you grab NY 254 between 9L and Warren St and NY 9L 1) between Lexington and 254 and 2) north of CRs 39/54 as part of your pre-meet clinching, you'll have a clinch of both by the end of the meet. Probably a dozen other things you could easily grab on your way up.

Already have 9L and 254. Basic plan is NY 40 N, NY 29 E (need 29 between 372 and 22), NY 22 N, CR 153 N → VT 153 N (clinch), VT 30 N (new mileage), VT 149 W → NY 149 W (clinching both VT and NY 149), US 4 S, NY 32 N, NY 196 E (need 196 east of 32), NY 40 S, NY 197 W (need 197 between 4 and 40), US 4 N, go to restaurant.

This would get me 100% done with Washington County, those pieces of 29, 149, 196, and 197 are all I currently need to do that. (TM map) (http://tm.teresco.org/user/mapview.php?units=miles&u=duke87&rg=NY)
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet - July 8
Post by: cl94 on July 07, 2017, 05:58:28 PM
Quote from: Duke87 on July 07, 2017, 05:46:48 PM
Quote from: cl94 on July 07, 2017, 03:52:36 PM
Lot of short stuff to clinch in the area. If you grab NY 254 between 9L and Warren St and NY 9L 1) between Lexington and 254 and 2) north of CRs 39/54 as part of your pre-meet clinching, you'll have a clinch of both by the end of the meet. Probably a dozen other things you could easily grab on your way up.

Already have 9L and 254. Basic plan is NY 40 N, NY 29 E (need 29 between 372 and 22), NY 22 N, CR 153 N → VT 153 N (clinch), VT 30 N (new mileage), VT 149 W → NY 149 W (clinching both VT and NY 149), US 4 S, NY 32 N, NY 196 E (need 196 east of 32), NY 40 S, NY 197 W (need 197 between 4 and 40), US 4 N, go to restaurant.

This would get me 100% done with Washington County, those pieces of 29, 149, 196, and 197 are all I currently need to do that. (TM map) (http://tm.teresco.org/user/mapview.php?units=miles&u=duke87&rg=NY)

Nice area out there. Shouldn't take you too long to get everything. If you're feeling adventurous, Rensselaer CR 111 -> CR 114 -> Washington CR 74 would get you to the start of new mileage on NY 29 and pass an old truss bridge along CR 111. Adds 5 minutes, if that (NY 40 south of NY 67 is a drag).
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet - July 8
Post by: cl94 on July 07, 2017, 08:07:13 PM
I have canceled the pre-meet due to lack of interest. If anybody wants to follow the route on their own, notes are here (https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B-lG3Wh9faM8Vk1ZQlFxQXlfbWM/view?usp=sharing). Main meet is still on and I'll see everyone who's attending at 11:30.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet - July 8
Post by: Roadgeek Adam on July 11, 2017, 02:41:17 PM
Everything went great! Here's the group photo:

(https://scontent.fewr1-3.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-0/s480x480/19958974_1347665248665719_4299030513087833642_n.jpg?oh=4ac5a080a6b55af6c5bdba526c217687&oe=59F970B1)

Kneeling: Mark Sinsabaugh (NY), Adam Moss (NY)

Standing: Josh Schmid (NY),  Chris Jordan (NY), Brandon Gorte (IL), David Corcoran (ID), Valerie Deane (NY), Anthony Costanzo (NY), CP Zillacus (MD), Laura Bianca-Pruett (MD), Michael Pruett (MD), Robert Malme (MA).
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet - July 8
Post by: cl94 on July 11, 2017, 07:55:45 PM
Thanks to everyone for coming out! Weather wasn't great, but I hope everyone had a great time.
Title: Re: 2017 Southeast Adirondacks Meet - July 8
Post by: JJBers on August 09, 2017, 11:17:20 PM
Well, a month late, but I'll be staying nearby this weekend.