Governor Kathy Hochul announced the completion of a $17.7 million project that restored a six-mile stretch of the Long Island Expressway (Interstate 495) between Exit 67 (Yaphank Avenue) and Exit 69 (Wading River Road) in the Town of Brookhaven, Suffolk County.
The project, which began in the fall of 2023, removed and replaced deteriorated sections of the concrete road surface, enhancing safety and easing travel along one of Long Island’s busiest commuter arteries. Additional targeted repairs were also made to the road surface.
“The Long Island Expressway is vital to the flow of people and commerce on Long Island,” Governor Hochul said. “These concrete repairs will give motorists a smoother ride along a key stretch of the highway while also making it better able to withstand the impacts of severe weather.”
The project replaced deteriorated sections of concrete — which were installed during the highway’s construction in the late 1960s and early 1970s — with new, high-strength concrete, designed to better withstand heavy daily traffic and seasonal temperature fluctuations. Crews also sealed cracks and pavement joints, restored the shoulders where needed, and installed new reflective pavement markings to extend the durability of the six-mile stretch of highway and to ensure a more comfortable driving experience.
Local officials weighed in with praise for the project and relief that it is finished.
Suffolk County Executive Edward Romaine said, “Our roads are in desperate need of attention, and this project is an important example of the improvements that need to be made across Suffolk County.”
Brookhaven Town Supervisor Dan Panico said, “We appreciated the repair work done to make the Long Island Expressway safer. Investments in our aging transportation infrastructure are necessary to keep our residents safe.
State Senator Dean Murray said, “When the people speak, it's important that we listen. I thank the Governor and NYS-DOT officials for committing the resources necessary to make these much needed improvements.”
Assemblymember Jodi Giglio said, “I’m grateful that the New York State Department of Transportation has prioritized this much needed restoration along the Long Island Expressway. These improvements will make a real difference for the thousands of Suffolk County residents who rely on the LIE everyday.”