Lately, when driving up and down Route 97, one must navigate through a flurry of construction. This transitional period of our local roads hearkens back to the early 20th century, when Route 97 (originally planned to be called Route 3-A) was first built.

The journey to the construction of Route 97 was not quick or effortless. Initially, construction failed to commence within time allotted by the original plans, leaving many to believe that the project would never happen.

However, in 1929, the Delaware Valley Association was organized, and the towns began to campaign for Route 97. Later that year, the governor of New York State at the time, Franklin D. Roosevelt, visited the Ten Mile River Boy Scout Camp near Narrowsburg, taking the inconvenient local roads during his trip. Soon thereafter, contracts were drawn, and construction began.

At the end of the project in 1939, around $4.1 million had been expended, and Route 97 was built. Today, as Route 97 undergoes construction, take a moment to reflect upon the impact the road has had on our community, through its establishment of numerous connections and opportunities.

The Basket Historical Society preserves and presents the history of the Upper Delaware area. If you are interested in becoming a member or finding out more, contact us at baskethistsociety@gmail.com.