Legislature Approves Funds for Huntington Station Improvements

Suffolk County Press Release:

The Suffolk County Legislature has approved a bill to upgrade an intersection in Huntington Station that is a key step in the revitalization of the neighborhood.

The bill provides $250,000 to realign the intersection of Railroad Street and Lowndes Avenue, to calm traffic and to improve safety for pedestrians.  Also included in the bill are funds for brick paver sidewalks and curbing, and decorative street lighting.

“This is yet another step in our efforts to improve the safety and well-being of residents of Huntington Station,” Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone said. “People will be able to travel by car or by foot in this area and reach key destinations in Huntington Station. These improvements will make the area a better place for all those who live, work, travel or shop in this area.”

The bill is just one part of a multipronged effort to enhance conditions for the residents of Huntington Station.  Previously, the county funded the nearby Columbia Terrace project to provide housing for veterans, through its Workforce Housing program, which included $389,000 for acquisition of land and $100,000 for infrastructure improvements.

The intersection is near the Long Island Rail Road, two blocks from the Jack Abrams STEM Magnet School  and within walking distance of the Huntington Town Business Incubator. The county also provided $150,000 for the business incubator.

 In addition the Town of Huntington has adopted plans for a mixed-use development including a hotel, stores and residential housing that will also be within walking distance of this intersection.

“Jumpstart Suffolk is a way for Suffolk County to support Huntington Station and target capital funds toward projects that will best benefit the community,” said Suffolk County Legislator William R. Spencer, M.D. (D-Centerport).  “The $250,000 investment that will redevelop the intersection of Lowndes Avenue and Railroad Street will enhance the walkability and aesthetics of the area.  Residents and surrounding businesses will all benefit from these improvements.”

The Huntington Station project is part of  Suffolk County’s ‘Jumpstart’ program, a comprehensive economic development plan to encourage, foster and enhance the planning and development of regionally significant developments in and around Suffolk’s downtowns.

The project is scheduled to begin in late spring 2015 and completed by Labor Day weekend.

Funding for the four major infrastructure projects are expected to create thousands of jobs, encourage economic growth and facilitate the development of transit-oriented downtowns. The projects are located in the Town of Brookhaven (Ronkonkoma Hub), Town of Babylon (Wyandanch Rising), Town of Huntington (Huntington Station), and the Town of Smithtown (Smithtown Central Business District.)