Assemblymen Jarett Gandolfo and Michael Durso have urged the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) to move up the timeline for rehabilitating the Robert Moses Causeway Bridge over the Fire Island Inlet. The lawmakers want work to begin this year instead of 2027, following a viral video that showed a large hole in the bridge. Emergency repairs were made before the bridge was reopened to traffic.
“We appreciate NYSDOT’s swift response in completing emergency repairs and reopening the bridge,” said Gandolfo. “However, I don’t think anyone is comfortable with the pavement eroding to the point that we can see the water below. It’s clear that the total rehabilitation of the bridge needs to be done sooner. Waiting until 2027 to begin construction presents unnecessary risks to public safety and the long-term integrity of this critical infrastructure.”
The Fire Island Inlet Bridge connects mainland communities with Robert Moses State Park and Fire Island, supporting tourism, recreation, and local businesses during summer months. The bridge is considered essential for both economic activity and daily life in the region.
“You don’t slap patches on a bridge and hope for the best—you fix it the right way,” said Durso. “NYSDOT needs to expedite a full repair instead of relying on short-term fixes for two years, because when it comes to safety, there’s no room for shortcuts.”
According to current plans, construction would start in fall 2027 and finish by spring 2028. Both Gandolfo and Durso expressed concern about further deterioration if work is delayed, which could cause more safety issues or lead to additional closures.
The legislators said they are willing to work with NYSDOT and state leaders to speed up progress on the project.
“We thank the department for its continued work maintaining our region’s transportation infrastructure and stand ready to assist in any way that helps expedite this project,” they stated.
Gandolfo has been active in public service through his support of local municipalities and nonprofits as noted in his official biography (official biography). He represents parts of Suffolk County in the New York State Assembly where he focuses on strengthening the local economy, supporting businesses and law enforcement, and community development initiatives (official New York State Assembly website). Gandolfo holds degrees in Criminal Justice from SUNY Albany and Public Administration from Villanova University (official biography), reflecting his background in public service roles.
