Previously Published in The Messenger
By Matt Meduri
In light of the revitalization efforts in Kings Park, namely the Kings Park Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI), road repairs have begun.
The restoration began on March 10 on Main Street, particularly curb-to-curb milling and paving restorations. This project is part of the Revitalization and Sewer Connection Initiative and is expected to “enhance road conditions, improve drainage, and create a smoother, safer driving experience for residents and visitors alike,” according to the Town of Smithtown.
To minimize disruptions, night work will take place between 8:30p.m. and 6:00a.m. Minor traffic detours are expected, as the work will run along Main Street (State Route 25A) from the Nissequogue River State Park entrance to Park Avenue. An overlay asphalt paving project is scheduled for April 15.
“With the spring thaw finally here, we’re excited to hit the ground running and give the people of Kings Park the beautiful, smooth roadways they deserve throughout the Downtown Business District,” said Smithtown Highway Superintendent Robert Murphy (R-St. James). “This long-anticipated work will enhance safety, improve infrastructure, and revitalize one of our most vibrant communities. This wouldn’t be possible without the hard work and collaboration of so many dedicated agencies.”
Initial milling will fix uneven road surfaces, with necessary asphalt and drainage repairs to follow. Leveling and smoothing will create a much smoother and safer driving surface.
The work is set to be completed in a phased approach, starting with work along Indian Head Road. Main Street between Church Street and Kings Park Boulevard will follow.
Concrete panel restoration will take about four to five weeks, after which asphalt paving will be finished.
Finally, after Main Street is paved, the work will continue westward, including State Route 25A from Park Avenue to Pulaski Road, as well as side streets within the Kings Park Business District.
“I want to extend my sincere gratitude to Suffolk County Public Works, the Department of Economic Development and Planning, the New York State Department of Transportation, the Smithtown Planning Department, and the Smithtown Department of Environment and Waterways for their tireless efforts in bringing this project to fruition ahead of schedule,” said Superintendent Murphy. “Also a special thanks to the Suffolk County Executive’s office for their unwavering support in helping us cut through red tape and address resident concerns efficiently. We are proud to be delivering these much-needed improvements, and we appreciate everyone’s patience and cooperation as we work to make Kings Park’s roads better than ever.”
The Town is informing residents and businesses that periodic lane closures, detours, and temporary parking restrictions should be expected. Some driveways may experience temporary access restrictions, but advance notice will be given before such work begins. The Town has also stated that all efforts will be exhausted to minimize inconvenience from noise from the construction equipment.
“The long-awaited revitalization of the Kings Park Business District is finally becoming a reality, and this roadwork is just the beginning of an incredible transformation. After more than a decade of public input, community outreach, and strategic planning, backed by millions in grant funding from Federal, State and County governments, we are turning years of vision into tangible progress,” said Supervisor Ed Wehrheim (R-Kings Park), “What was once just models and renderings will now take shape before our eyes—creating a safer, more vibrant, and welcoming downtown for residents, businesses, and visitors alike. This is more than just infrastructure; it’s the foundation of a beautifully restored Kings Park that will thrive for generations to come. We thank our community for their patience and support, and we look forward to celebrating this milestone together.”
The final top coat of asphalt will be installed in the spring. By May, the roads of Kings Park will be fully repaved.
Residents are encouraged to report potholes or other concerns by calling 631-393-4994.