Leaf peepers heading to the Northeast for the annual fall foliage display will have to strike one destination off their list this year. The scenic Vermont town of Pomfret has made the decision to close roads leading to Sleepy Hollow Farm, a popular tourist spot during autumn. And the reason behind it? Overwhelming traffic congestion. A memo from the Town of Pomfret Selectboard explains that the increase in visitors during foliage season has resulted in numerous issues, including safety concerns, negative environmental impact, and a decline in the quality of life for residents. The road closures were proposed last month in response to the “extraordinary tourism interest” in the area.
Starting from now until October 15, only local residents, delivery drivers, emergency personnel, and agricultural vehicles will be granted access to the roads surrounding Sleepy Hollow Farm, as reported by the Burlington Free Press. The temporary shutdown aims to prevent an overwhelming influx of motorists flocking to the 18th-century farm, which has garnered immense popularity in recent years, thanks to viral videos on social media platforms like TikTok. “During a sunny afternoon, you can easily find up to 100 cars or more parked along what is essentially a narrow road,” says John Peters Jr., Chair of the Selectboard.
The traffic situation has become a major headache for residents, making it difficult for them to exit their driveways and impeding emergency vehicles. One resident recounted an incident where a tourist mistakenly wandered into her garden house in search of a bathroom. “It has become a genuine nuisance,” says Windsor County Sheriff Ryan Palmer. “In some cases, it poses a serious safety risk.” Last year, the town attempted to alleviate the issue by designating one road leading to Sleepy Hollow Farm as one-way, and although it provided some relief, it wasn’t sufficient.
Frustrated residents have even resorted to writing negative reviews of the farm online and attempting to have its location removed from Google Maps. To enforce the road closures, the authorities will deploy both police and private security personnel along with signage and physical barriers, informs Peters in an interview with the Free Press. “The allure of Vermont lies in its vibrant fall foliage, and we understand that,” says Eric Duffy, Municipal Manager for the nearby town of Woodstock, as mentioned in Travel + Leisure. “However, it’s crucial to appreciate the distinction between a private residence and a public space.” (Read more Vermont stories.)
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