The New York State Department of Transportation’s (NYSDOT) $25 million construction project to repave the Long Island Express/I495 (LIE) between Willis Avenue (Exit 37) and Sunnyside Boulevard (Exit 46) , began last week. Before the harsh winter weather sets in, the eastbound sections of the LIE between Willis Avenue (Exit 37) and Wheatley Road (east of Exit 39) & NY135/Seaford Oyster Bay Expressway (Exit 44) and Northern State Parkway (west of Exit 46) will be repaved first. Starting tonight and each night, Thursday through Sunday, between the hours of 9:30 p.m. and 5:00 a.m., the eastbound direction of the LIE will be reduced to a single travel lane. Once the eastbound sections are completed, work will continue on the remaining eastbound and westbound segments from Exit 37 to Exit 46. The repaving operations will continue through the fall of 2014 resuming again in the spring of 2015 with the entire 10 miles completed by the fall of 2015.
The top layer of the worn, distressed pavement is being removed then replaced with new asphalt and fresh pavement markings, as well as upgrading radar traffic detectors and loops. When completed, these pavement repairs will improve motorists’ safety and help maintain the integrity of Long Island Expressway from Roslyn Heights to Plainview. The project is being performed by Intercounty Paving Associates, LLC of Hicksville, NY. Local officials, businesses and emergency service providers have been notified about this repaving project.
Motorists are encouraged to use alternate routes or allow extra time as they will experience delays. Drivers who cannot use alternate routes are reminded to drive carefully through the work zone for their safety as well as the safety of the highway work crew. As with most road and bridge projects, this construction work may be cancelled, postponed, or prolonged due to inclement weather. For 24/7 up-to-date traffic and travel information, motorists should call 511 or visit www.511NY.org. In addition, travel information can be obtained from the INFORM Transportation Management Center cameras at www.INFORMNY.com and on their hand held communication devices at www.INFORMNY.mobi.
The New York State Department of Transportation appreciates the patience and cooperation of motorists, businesses, and the local community as this pavement improvement work is undertaken to help assure the continued protection of all motorists.
