Faster county funding for Jackson Ave. work

Nassau County's $3-million contribution to rebuilding problem-plagued Jackson Avenue in Syosset will be accelerated, aiding a long-awaited project set for completion next summer.

The Town of Oyster Bay, which is managing construction, approved a resolution Tuesday allowing the county to change its payment method. Instead of making payments in stages -- based on roadwork progress -- the county would pay the total at once.

The change lessens the chances of work being delayed because of funding. Funds could be imminent, officials said.

The county determined that taxpayers are better served if Oyster Bay "has direct access to the funds allocated for the repair and maintenance of Jackson Avenue," said Mike Martino, a Nassau public works spokesman.

Last year, the town and county entered into an agreement, ending years of inaction on the busy thoroughfare between Jericho Turnpike and the Long Island Rail Road tracks. Potholes, a blind curve, lack of sidewalks and inadequate drainage on the one-mile stretch drew constant complaints from area residents.

As part of the agreement, the town assumed responsibility for the road portion of the work and the county agreed to contribute $3 million.

In March, the town awarded a $3.8 million, 18-month construction contract to Carlo Lizza & Sons Paving of Hicksville. The town had already spent about $1 million in engineering costs.

Since late spring, road crews have been working five days a week, ripping up pavement and installing new sidewalks.

"It's been moving along very well," said Phyllis Barry, a town spokeswoman. "Weather has been on our side."

Two-way traffic continues despite the work, with drivers maneuvering through a maze of orange cones and heavy equipment. Officials have said construction could be completed three months before the contract expires in September 2012.

Laura Schultz, president of the civic group Residents for a More Beautiful Syosset, said detours and disruptions have been limited, other than one recent water main break.

"The first week of school will be the real test, when we have the school buses coming out here," she said.