(BALDWIN, N.Y.) - Nassau County Legislator Debra Mulé (D - Freeport) applauded her colleagues on the Nassau County Legislature’s Rules committee for approving on Monday, May 10 two contracts related to the Grand Avenue “Complete Streets” infrastructure project - a key investment in the future reviataliation of downtown Baldwin.
These contracts include a nearly $7.9-million construction contract with J. Anthony Enterprises, Inc., and a more than $1.74-million construction management and inspection services contract with Lockwood Kessler and Bartlett, Inc.
The streetscape is designed to improve traffic flow, safety and walkability along 1.4 miles of Grand Avenue by adding dedicated turning lanes, synchronized traffic lights and undertaking a “road diet” between Merrick Road and Sunrise Highway (and again between Smith Street to Florence Street) along the span. Legislator Mulé stressed that the upgrades will be completed in a fiscally responsible manner using outside grants and dedicated funds that she previously secured in the County’s capital plan.
“Baldwin residents and community leaders have long advocated for the type of transformative, forward-thinking revitalization that will breathe new life into the downtown business district through its embrace of smart-growth principles,” Legislator Mulé said. “Many years of hard work are about to come to fruition in Baldwin, and the Legislature’s action underscores Nassau County’s commitment to serve as a partner in building a brighter, more sustainable future for our residents.”
Approval of the contracts comes at a crucial time for the future course of downtown Baldwin revitalization. On Tuesday, May 11, Legislator Mulé joined New York State Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul, New York State Senator John Brooks, Nassau County Executive Laura Curran, New York State Assembly Member Judy Griffin, Hempstead Town Supervisor Don Clavin and Long Island Association past President Kevin Law to announce much-anticipated plans for the $10 million Downtown Revitalization Initiative project to restore Baldwin’s vibrant downtown.
The scope of upgrades includes mixed-use development at Milburn Plaza, 775 Brooklyn Avenue, and 2130 and 2134-2138 Grand Avenue; affordable workforce housing at Baldwin Commons; financial assistance for property owners through a Downtown Improvement Grant; and additional traffic and pedestrian safety investments in Merrick Road between Harrison Avenue and Pershing Boulevard.
PHOTO CAPTION - Legislator Mulé looks on as NY Lieutenant Governor Hochul speaks in Baldwin on Tuesday, May 11.
PHOTO CREDIT - Office of Nassau County Legislator Debra Mulé