The Rockland Navigator — March 23, 2026

Top Stories

Rockland County Legislature Approves Gas Tax Cap to Ease Rising Fuel Costs

Good news for drivers at the pump: the Rockland County Legislature has approved a measure to cap sales tax on gasoline. Under the new plan, the county's 4% sales tax will only apply to the first $3 per gallon of gas, rather than the full retail price. With fuel prices climbing across the region, this move should provide meaningful relief for residents, commuters, and local businesses that rely on fuel costs. The measure takes effect immediately and applies to all gas purchases at Rockland County pumps.

Major Traffic Change Coming: Palisades Parkway Ramp to I-87 North Closing for Months

Attention, commuters: if you regularly use the Palisades Interstate Parkway in Clarkstown, mark your calendars. The ramp from southbound Palisades Parkway to Exit 9W (I-87 northbound) will close beginning Wednesday, March 25, for several months of reconstruction work. The New York State Department of Transportation says the closure is necessary for infrastructure improvements. Drivers heading north on I-87 from the Palisades Parkway will need to use alternate routes during this period. Plan ahead, especially if this is part of your daily commute.

Rockland County Releases First Draft of Comprehensive Master Plan

Rockland County has opened a significant chapter in its future by releasing the draft of "Envision Rockland," a comprehensive master plan that will guide development, zoning, and community priorities for years to come. This is your opportunity to weigh in on how our county should grow and change. The public review process is now underway, so if you care about land use, housing, economic development, or environmental protection in Rockland, this is the moment to get involved and share your feedback.

Spring Valley Police Launch Drone Response Unit

Spring Valley Village Police Department has launched a new Drone Response Team with 12 certified operators, including patrol officers, detectives, and sergeants. The unit has already been deployed in missing person cases and other operations. The technology allows officers to cover larger areas quickly and gather real-time information during emergencies. This is one of the latest tools Rockland County law enforcement agencies are using to improve public safety and emergency response.

Sgt. Colleen Fitzpatrick Named Commander of 62nd Rockland County St. Patrick's Day Parade

Retired New York City Police Sergeant Colleen Fitzpatrick has been named Parade Commander for the 62nd Rockland County St. Patrick's Day Parade in honor of Irish-American Heritage Month. Fitzpatrick, who recently retired after 20 years with the NYPD, brings deep roots in the Irish-American community and a lifetime of service to this county's celebration of heritage and culture.

Spring Valley Honors Firefighter Jared Lloyd's Heroic Sacrifice

Five years ago this week, Spring Valley firefighter Jared Lloyd made the ultimate sacrifice while rescuing residents during a devastating fire at Evergreen Court Home for Adults on March 23, 2021. The 35-year-old, a 2004 graduate of Spring Valley High School, is credited with rescuing up to seven people during that heroic effort. Our community continues to remember his courage and the lives he saved. It's a sobering reminder of the dangers our first responders face every day.

Government & Politics

County Legislature Acts on Fuel Costs

The Rockland County Legislature's decision to cap sales tax on gasoline reflects lawmakers' recognition that rising fuel prices affect every resident's budget. The 4% sales tax cap at $3 per gallon is a direct fiscal relief measure that does not require state approval. County officials hope this action will ease strain on households and local businesses through the spring and summer months.

Master Plan Opens for Public Input

The "Envision Rockland Comprehensive Plan" represents the county's first updated master plan in years. The document addresses growth management, environmental protection, economic development, and housing. Community members, business leaders, and local officials can submit feedback during the public review period. This plan will shape zoning decisions, infrastructure investments, and development priorities for the foreseeable future.

Community & Events

Pearl River Pizzeria: 30 Years of Community and Consistency

Frank's Pearl River Pizzeria is more than just a place to grab a slice—it's a neighborhood cornerstone built on consistency, community, and making customers feel at home. After 30 years, Frank continues to practice his craft with the same care and pride that made the pizzeria a local favorite. If you haven't stopped by recently, it's a great reminder to support the family-owned businesses that give our towns character.

Defiant Brewery Prepares to Close After 18 Years

After 18 years of operation in Pearl River, Defiant Brewery is preparing to close its doors. The brewery has been a beloved gathering spot for craft beer enthusiasts and community members. A full podcast interview with the owner is available on Rockland News (Apple and Spotify) as they reflect on their time serving our county. If you have fond memories at Defiant, now is your chance to visit one last time.

Ramapo Police Focus on Pedestrian Safety

The Town of Ramapo Police Department's Traffic Safety Unit conducted a pedestrian safety enforcement and education detail on Friday near West Central Avenue and Adar Court. Officers educated the public and enforced traffic violations to improve safety for both walkers and drivers. As warmer weather brings more foot traffic, these safety initiatives are timely reminders to stay alert in busy corridors.

Quick Hits

• Potholes in Spring: Pothole season is in full swing across Rockland and Westchester. You can report potholes to your local highway department—most towns have online reporting systems or phone hotlines.
• Pearl River Native Makes Rangers: Defenseman Drew Fortescue, 20, from Pearl River has signed a three-year entry-level contract with the New York Rangers after completing his season at Boston College.
• USPS Incident Update: A Stony Point man who allegedly assaulted a 4-year-old child in Monsey has been charged and released pending a court appearance. The incident, which occurred on March 20, was captured on CCTV.
• Pedestrian Safety Reminder: As traffic picks up on warmer spring days, remember to look both ways, use designated crossings, and stay alert near busy intersections.
• Gas Tax Relief Effective Now: The county's new gas tax cap is in effect immediately—that means savings start right away at the pump.
• Envision Rockland Input Needed: The county master plan review is open for public comment. Residents can share feedback on the direction of future development and land use in our county.
• Drone Technology for Emergencies: Spring Valley Police's new Drone Response Team has already been deployed in missing person cases, showing how technology can enhance emergency response times.
• Travel Early Tomorrow: With the Palisades Parkway ramp closure beginning Wednesday, consider testing your alternate route before you need it.
• St. Patrick's Day Parade Leadership: Retired NYPD Sgt. Colleen Fitzpatrick brings 20 years of service experience to her role as commander of the county's 62nd St. Patrick's Day Parade.
• Support Local Businesses: Celebrate the businesses that make Rockland special—from family pizzerias to craft breweries—before favorite spots close or change.

Things You Need to Know

Upcoming Events (Next 7-10 Days)

• St. Patrick's Day Celebrations: Irish-American Heritage Month events and celebrations are happening throughout Rockland County, including the 62nd Rockland County St. Patrick's Day Parade and related festivities. Check local town websites for specific times and locations.
• Ramapo Parks & Recreation Programs: Spring sports leagues, fitness classes, and youth activities are ramping up as the weather warms. Visit your local parks department for registration details.
• Rockland County Master Plan Public Hearings: Check Rockland County's website for scheduled public comment periods on the Envision Rockland Comprehensive Plan. This is your chance to be heard on the county's future.
• Spring Valley Police Open House: The Spring Valley Police Department may be hosting community events to showcase their new Drone Response Unit. Contact the department for details.
• Last Calls at Defiant Brewery: Pearl River's Defiant Brewery is in its final weeks of operation. Stop by to enjoy a final beer and say goodbye to a local fixture.

Police Blotter

• Assault in Monsey (March 20): A USPS mail carrier assaulted a 4-year-old child on Garden Terrace off Viola Road at approximately 6:30 PM. The incident was captured on CCTV footage. A suspect from Stony Point was charged and released pending a court appearance. Ramapo Police and community members responded to the scene.
• Ramapo Traffic Enforcement (March 21): The Ramapo Police Traffic Safety Unit conducted a pedestrian safety enforcement detail near West Central Avenue and Adar Court, educating the public and enforcing traffic violations in a busy corridor.
• Ongoing Public Safety Efforts: Law enforcement across the county continues to conduct traffic safety details and community education as spring weather brings increased foot and vehicular traffic.

Reminders

Road Closure Alert: The ramp from southbound Palisades Interstate Parkway to Exit 9W (I-87 northbound) in Clarkstown closes Wednesday, March 25, for several months. Plan alternate routes now if you use this corridor regularly.

Gas Tax Savings: Take advantage of the new county gas tax cap effective immediately. The 4% sales tax now applies only to the first $3 per gallon, meaning your fill-ups will cost less than before.

Report Potholes: Spring thaw is creating potholes across the county. Report them to your town highway department via phone or online system so crews can prioritize repairs.

Master Plan Feedback: The Envision Rockland Comprehensive Plan is open for public review. Visit Rockland County's website to read the draft and submit comments before the review period closes.

Spring Valley's Firefighter Memorial: March 23 marks the anniversary of firefighter Jared Lloyd's heroic sacrifice in 2021. Communities throughout Rockland County continue to honor his memory and the sacrifices made by our first responders.

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We hope this edition keeps you informed and connected to what's happening in our county. Whether you're navigating road closures, saving at the pump, or supporting local businesses, there's plenty to celebrate and be aware of in Rockland right now. As always, we're here to keep you in the know.

The Rockland Navigator team