Work has started on the latest phase of the State Route 347 reconstruction project in Suffolk County, according to an announcement from Governor Kathy Hochul. The effort, which began several months ahead of schedule, focuses on upgrading a one-mile section of the roadway between Hallock Road and County Route 97 (Nicolls Road) in the Town of Brookhaven. The $44.7 million initiative is the seventh phase in an ongoing project that aims to transform a 12-mile stretch of State Route 347 into a modern multi-modal boulevard.
Governor Hochul stated, “New York is moving full speed ahead with infrastructure investments that will connect communities in every corner of this state and improve the travel experience for everyone who uses our transportation network. We are reimagining the State Route 347 corridor to better accommodate the evolving needs of Long Islanders and make it easier and safer for motorists, pedestrians and mass transit riders to travel along this important roadway.”
The current phase includes creating a consistent third travel lane to reduce bottlenecks, installing a raised stone median with native plants, and enhancing traffic signals with pedestrian countdown timers. The speed limit will be lowered to 45 mph, and green traffic signal masts and signposts will be used to blend with the local environment. Bus stops will be moved back from the road into designated pull-off areas with shelters featuring solar-powered lighting.
The Parks-To-Port Greenway—a shared-use path next to eastbound lanes—will also be extended, providing bicycle racks and shaded rest areas for alternative travel options.
New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said, “Thank you to Governor Hochul for recognizing the monumental importance of continued investment in the modernization of New York’s transportation infrastructure. Her support and that of the NYS Legislature for DOT’s Capital Plan provides the funding that makes the rehabilitation of Route 347 and this project possible. Investing in transportation infrastructure creates jobs and bolsters the regional economy while building a sustainable, multimodal transportation network that benefits all Long Islanders.”
This phase is expected to create over 580 jobs with major work projected for completion in 2027.
State Route 347 has evolved over seven decades from a delivery road serving local farmers into an arterial highway used by more than 60,000 vehicles daily. The broader reconstruction project has received $250 million in state investment so far for upgrades such as new lanes, signals, and crosswalks.
In March, Governor Hochul announced plans to accelerate construction on a bridge carrying State Route 347 over Nicolls Road by six years as part of New York’s $34.3 billion capital plan (https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/governor-hochul-announces-historic-343-billion-transportation-infrastructure-plan). Afterward, further reconstruction will extend from Mark Tree Road through Old Town Road up to State Route 25A.
Senator Charles Schumer commented: “When I passed the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law through Congress, it was to upgrade our local infrastructure, boost jobs and the economy, and make vital improvements in our downtowns — and that’s exactly what this work will do. These funds will go to good use on State Route 347, AKA the Smithtown Bypass, and create a safer conduit for our communities while creating good paying jobs in the process.”
Senator Kirsten Gillibrand added: “The reimagined State Route 347 corridor will reduce congestion and help ensure that Long Islanders can travel safely and efficiently. Investments like these connect our communities and keep families safe, and in Washington I’ll keep fighting to deliver the funding needed for critical infrastructure projects across New York.”
Other local leaders also voiced support for both safety improvements and economic benefits resulting from this investment.
State Senator Anthony Palumbo said: “The modernization of State Route 347 is a much-needed investment in our region and will help ease congestion, enhance safety and improve mobility for area motorists and pedestrians. This project is win-win for the region and an important upgrade to help make this thoroughfare a welcoming gateway to the community and Stony Brook University.”
Assemblymember Rebecca Kassay remarked: “I am grateful for the continued investment in more efficient, safer Long Island roadways by Governor Hochul and my colleagues in New York State. Local community members have shared appreciation for the boulevard aesthetic and usability for pedestrians and cyclists in the areas where these improvements have been completed, and we look forward to these infrastructural amenities expanding further into the district. With the roadway changes that help to keep cars moving at peak use times, local commuters can spend less time stuck in traffic and more quality time with their friends and family. This next stretch of Route 347 modernization will be complemented by the construction of a bridge over Nicolls Road in the coming years, further improving traffic flow for all who live and work in the district.”
Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine noted: “This project addresses some of the worst traffic in Suffolk County. When it’s finished, it will dramatically improve the quality of life for the community. Thank you to the state for this investment in Suffolk County.”
Town of Brookhaven Supervisor Daniel J. Panico said: “So much of New York’s aged and aging infrastructure needs significant upgrade. The reconstruction work on NYS Route 347, from Smithtown to Brookhaven, has helped modernize the roadway for motorists and pedestrians alike. We are grateful for the state’s investment in this multiphase project that began when former Senator John Flanagan walked the halls of Albany and appreciate our Governor seeing it through and recognizing the value in the investment.”
Long Island Contractors Association Executive Director Marc Herbst commented: “This next phase of the Route 347 reconstruction marks another major step forward for Long Island to ease traffic, improve safety, and create good-paying jobs in our communities. Peter Scalamandre & Sons, Inc. delivered excellent work on earlier phases, and now they and our other subcontractors stand ready to bring that same experience and energy to this next stage. We thank Governor Hochul for moving this work ahead of schedule and look forward to partnering with the State to modernize our roads and keep Long Island moving.”
Long Island Federation of Labor President John Durso stated: “We’d like to thank Governor Hochul for her leadership and commitment to this vital project. In order to compete in a constantly evolving economy, we must consistently invest in our infrastructure, communities, and the working people who make it all possible. This investment expands capacity on a still developing artery in our region’s transportation infrastructure integral to our success in future.”
Nassau-Suffolk Building Trades Council President Matthew Aracich said: “Governor Hochul continues to deliver great projects for Suffolk County. The early launch of Phase 7 of Empire State Route 347 Reconstruction Project is a strong sign of New York’s commitment to improving infrastructure , safety , accessibility . Investments like this not only ease congestion enhance mobility all types commuters but also contribute long-term economic growth quality life region . Reducing traffic more than reducing travel time reduces levels emissions vehicles . I look forward seeing more skilled trades working project as continue transforming important roadway which several months ahead schedule!”
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