“Today’s news is extremely positive, logical and gratifying for all those who have rallied for this proposal,” said Brookhaven Town Supervisor Dan Panico. “Investments in our infrastructure create good-paying jobs and provide solutions for our collective future.”
The NYSDOT Commissioner announced on Friday that construction on a bridge at the Centereach interchange of NYS-347 and Nicolls Rd. would be moved up from 2034 to 2028.
Governor Kathy Hochul and fellow elected representatives on the local front were not in attendance at the Hauppauge Labor Yard for the March 14 press conference, but nevertheless extended sentiments of solidarity with this high-impact initiative.
“Reliable, accessible transportation is the backbone of every society and is a right every community must have, which is why I’m proud to support and celebrate this much-needed project in Suffolk County.” Governor Hochul said in a statement.
“This overpass will bring a new driving experience to those who live, work and commute in Suffolk County, and I’m looking forward to seeing its completion. By accelerating this project, we are not only improving safety and efficiency for motorists, but we are also strengthening Long Island’s infrastructure to support future growth and economic development.”
State Senators with Brookhaven locale, Anthony Palumbo and Dean Murray, followed suit with equal excitement.
“These thoroughfares are a gateway to the State's flagship University at Stony Brook and are important roadways for the area's businesses, residents and college students,” said Palumbo.
Adds Murray: “I very much appreciate the NYSDOT making this a priority.”
Assemblyman Doug Smith (R-Holbrook) crossed the aisle just as fellow Republicans Palumbo and Murray did to align himself with the state's leading Democrat—as motorists islandwide can agree this is the definition of a bipartisan issue.
“I appreciate Governor Hochul and the Department of Transportation for recognizing the importance of this project and working to deliver these much-needed upgrades years ahead of schedule,” the assemblyman said.
The NY-347, Nicolls Rd. bridgeway will eliminate a traffic choke point for Brookhaven’s residents to Stony Brook Hospital, the only Level One Trauma Center in Suffolk County, said Panico.
“Brookhaven certainly appreciates this news,” the town supervisor adds, “and thanks [to] all those involved in moving this project up.”
Like Smith, Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine smells traffic congestion alleviation in the near future, per the NYSDOT’s and the Governor’s joint initiative.
“For more than a decade I have advocated for this project to be prioritized,” said Romaine.
The longtime legislator predicts the bridge will “improve the quality of life for the surrounding residents and increase safety in the area.”