A $30 million project is underway to modernize and expand New York Route 17, but some say the project could violate the state’s climate law.

Taylor Jaffe, of the environmental group Catskill Mountainkeeper, says the state needs to stop the expansion. She said it would violate New York’s Climate Leadership & Community Protection Act by increasing traffic and air pollution.

“This is also a corridor comprised almost entirely of New York state-identified disadvantaged communities," she said. "And the Climate Act is really specific in saying that we need to target reductions of pollution and emissions in those areas, whereas this would increase both of those.”

Mountainkeeper wrote a letter to DOT Commissioner Therese Dominguez and Gov. Kathy Hochul. They’ve asked, in part, that they cease expansion and consider other projects that would be more helpful to communities along the highway. 

“There is no need to widen the highway," Jaffe said. "Certainly, driving here today, there are many potholes in many areas that need to be fixed first. And with $1.4 billion on the table, the state needs to stop all plans for widening.”

Jaffe added that there's concern that adding a third lane on 17 could pave the way for more warehouse projects along the highway. She said that would bring even traffic and environmental conservation issues. 

Spectrum News 1 reached out to DOT. It said:

"The New York State Department of Transportation is currently engaged in the environmental process for the State Route 17 Mobility & Access Improvement Project. Final design of this project remains to be determined and NYSDOT remains committed to engaging with the community every step of the way," a DOT statement says.

The governor’s office did not respond to a request for comment.