Freeport gets $5M to revamp North Main Street

The village has received a $5 million capital funds grant from Nassau County to begin revitalizing its North Main Street corridor.

"A streetscaping project on North Main Street is the first step towards progressive urban renewal in the northeast quadrant of the village, beginning at Brooklyn Avenue and proceeding north to Seaman Avenue," Mayor Robert Kennedy said in a news release. "Additional areas may be included as resources permit."

The project is expected to take at least two years, including acquiring land and easements from property owners, he said.

Kennedy said the visioning process for the project includes a task force that includes business owners, residents and community leaders.

The work is to include new sidewalks in a stamped brick pattern; handicapped access; decorative street lighting; tree plantings; benches, planters and trash containers; enhanced crosswalks to help ensure pedestrian safety; and new bus shelters.

"I am delighted to embark upon the beautification of this important gateway to and from the Village of Freeport," said Legis. Laura Curran (D-Baldwin), who helped secure the funding.

County Executive Edward Mangano said in the release that such downtown revitalization projects "help to jump-start our local economies."