Suffolk Reporter

New York State Senator Anthony Palumbo (R,C-New Suffolk) revealed plans for three transportation projects aimed at enhancing safety and traffic conditions in the East End region. The projects, part of a $27 million investment by the New York State Department of Transportation (DOT), are set to address congestion and modernize key intersections, ultimately benefiting both residents and tourists in the area.

Senator Palumbo commended the Governor and the DOT for their commitment to these crucial investments, stating, "I applaud the Governor and the Department of Transportation for their attention to these critical investments in our District.” He emphasized the positive impact of the projects on local residents, particularly during the busy tourist season when gridlocked roads are a common challenge.

The DOT has already initiated preliminary work on four East End intersections identified as local chokepoints, with major construction slated to commence this summer. The total cost for the reconstruction of these intersections is estimated at $10.9 million, with a focus on improving safety and reducing travel times for commuters and visitors.

In the Town of Southold, the intersection of State Route 25 and Suffolk County Route 48 will undergo transformation into a roundabout, facilitating smoother traffic flow to and from the Village of Greenport and the Cross Sound Ferry at Orient Point. This redesign aims to reduce congestion and enhance safety, with added pedestrian accommodations in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Similarly, the Town of Riverhead will see the reconfiguration of the intersection of State Route 25 and Edwards Avenue to include new left turning lanes in both directions, improving navigation for motorists. The upgrade will also involve the replacement of the existing traffic signal and enhancements to pedestrian accommodations to meet ADA standards.

Meanwhile, in the Town of East Hampton, the intersection of State Route 114 and Stephen Hands Path is set to undergo changes to incorporate left turning lanes from all directions. Additionally, new traffic signals with ADA-compliant pedestrian accommodations will be installed, along with the addition of turning lanes in both directions of Route 114 at the intersection with Goodfriend Drive.

Senator Palumbo highlighted the significance of these infrastructure investments, stating, “Investments in the region’s infrastructure are critically important and needed. These projects will help to reduce congestion and improve roadway safety. They will also create hundreds of good-paying jobs, a win, win for our communities and motorists.”

Overall, the upcoming transportation projects in the East End reflect a concerted effort to address traffic challenges, enhance safety measures, and bolster the local economy through job creation.