Leg. Denenberg And Civic Leaders Demand Completion of NYS DOT Construction Projects

on the Meadowbrook and Wantagh Parkways

Nassau County Legislator Dave Denenberg (D-Merrick) spoke recently to concerned civic leaders, residents and bicyclists in front of the Department of Transportation building in Merrick about the construction delays on the parkways that are causing extensive delays to motorists and inconveniencing bicyclists. Legislator Denenberg has written a few times to the DOT regarding the bridges over Sloop Channel and Goose Creek on the Wantagh and the bridge over Front Street on the Meadowbrook asking why the projects are not progressing in a timely manner but hasn’t received a reply.

The Sloop Channel bridge has been under construction for over five years and remains incomplete. Goose Creek drawbridge was supposed to be replaced in the spring of 2004 and has only begun this year. Construction began on the overpass over Front Street in East Meadow in the spring of 2008 causing heavy traffic on the Meadowbrook Parkway. For several months, construction has been halted.

“Enough is enough,” said Legislator Denenberg. “10 years of disruption to commuters and cyclists is unacceptable. It is outrageous to be inconvenienced with unnecessary, protracted delays. There have been numerous accidents because of the construction delays and lack of signage. The DOT must complete these projects immediately to ensure the safety of our residents; to make the morning and evening commute tolerable and to allow our bicycle enthusiasts to enjoy the trails we provide for them.”