The New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) and State Senator Jack Martins are providing key assistance in proposing solutions to the traffic congestion on Port Boulevard. Anyone who drives on Port Washington Boulevard during rush hour knows and appreciates the pressing need to address the traffic and safety issues on this state-owned road. The issues of congestion on the southbound lanes that back up as far as St. Francis Hospital, the excessive speeding and the insufficient storage in the left-hand turning lane for Middle Neck Road combine to make the road extremely dangerous. An initial traffic study requested by the Village of Flower Hill in conjunction with concerned residents resulted in the NYSDOT checking all the crosswalk signs, installing new signage and reducing the speed limit to 40 mph. The NYSDOT also acknowledged that the Port Boulevard/Middle Neck Road intersection needed further studying and possibly a redesign. This intersection has averaged two to four accidents a month since the beginning of 2013.
After a patient and persistent effort, we now have a commitment from the NYSDOT to do a complete study of this intersection. This commitment is the result of coordinated efforts by Senator Jack Martins, Mayor Elaine Phillips and the administration of St. Francis Hospital, who are directly affected by any proposed changes and have a strong interest in solving the traffic and safety problems. Notwithstanding the NYSDOT’s commitment, it is estimated that any changes will take at least five years. Understanding the need for a more timely solution that specifically addresses the safety issues, Mayor Phillips has requested that the village be allowed to erect traffic control devices in the interim.
The Village of Flower Hill has proposed erecting overhead Speed Display Signs on both sides of Port Washington Boulevard. Speed Display Signs are an effective and affordable tool to slow drivers. Studies have shown that these signs produce 10 to 20 percent reductions in average speeds along with an increase in compliance with the posted speed limit.
The proposed locations of the cantilevered poles that will hold the signs are as follows: northbound between Farmview Road and East High Road; and southbound north of Oaktree Lane. Senator Jack Martins has provided the village with state-grant funding for the entire cost of the equipment and its installation. The village is now waiting for approval from the NYSDOT and feedback from the community. Contact the village with any questions or concerns at 516-627-5000.
