$8.3M Parkway Bridge project completed in Islip
An $8.3 million effort to rehabilitate a busy 55-year-old bridge in Islip is complete, officials said Thursday.
The work on the Parkway Bridge, which carries the Southern and Hecksher State Parkways over Sunrise Highway, included removing and replacing the entire bridge deck, replacing or repairing deteriorated parts, and raising the bridge by 6 inches to improve clearance for vehicles traveling underneath it.
"The Parkway Bridge is an important part of Long Island's transportation network and by building it back better and stronger, we are ensuring that traffic moves safely and smoothly for many motorists that depend on it," Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo said. "This is another example of the progress we have made in bolstering key infrastructure projects that will support economic activity and keep this region on the move."
The work was done by Village Dock Inc. of Port Jefferson. State officials said all lanes of the bridge, used by 100,000 motorists each day, are now open to traffic and feature new pavement markings.
"This bridge serves a vital need for our residents and businesses throughout our community," Town of Islip Supervisor Angie Carpenter said. "I thank Governor Cuomo for working to rehab this bridge and forge his ongoing commitment to improving the infrastructure in our community."
Alfonso Castillo has been reporting for Newsday since 1999 and covering the transportation beat since 2008. He grew up in the Bronx and Queens and now lives in Valley Stream with his wife and two sons.
