Governor Kathy Hochul signed a bill on July 5 enabling the alienation, or transfer, of parkland in East Hampton, paving the way for significant traffic improvements at the intersection of North Main Street, Three Mile Harbor Road and Springs Fireplace Road. This legislative action could allow for the construction of a roundabout at the problematic intersection, addressing longstanding traffic delays, public safety and congestion issues.
The Town Board is now set to proceed with a referendum this November, seeking voters’ approval to swap the parcel of land needed for the roundabout with the parcel at 16 Swamp Road. Both parcels are located in the same school district. This step is essential in allowing the Town to work with the County to incorporate the roundabout into the project and align it with the broader improvements scheduled for Three Mile Harbor Road, expected to commence in the spring of 2027.
The Town of East Hampton has long advocated for a roundabout to alleviate traffic bottlenecks and improve visibility issues at this location. The Suffolk County Department of Public Works, after conducting a public information session in May of this year, acknowledged the community’s concerns but noted that the necessary land is currently designated as parkland. This new legislation permits the town to swap the parkland at this intersection with a comparable parcel at 16 Swamp Road, East Hampton to facilitate the project.
East Hampton Town Supervisor, Kathee Burke-Gonzalez said, “Governor Hochul’s support for this bill is a tremendous step forward for our community. The roundabout would significantly improve traffic flow, safety, and improve the overall quality of life for our residents. We are grateful to the Governor, Senator Palumbo and Assemblyman Thiele for their leadership in making this possible. The feedback from our residents has highlighted the critical need for this roundabout, and their voices have been heard.”
Based on the insights gathered from the 2019 Hamlet Study, which included extensive public participation, it is evident that a roundabout at the intersection of Three Mile Harbor Road and Springs Fireplace Road is a crucial public priority. Participants highlighted frequent traffic backups along Three Mile Harbor Road and North Main Street, exacerbating difficulties for residents and local businesses alike.
The triangular park at this intersection was identified as an appropriate site for a roundabout to alleviate congestion and enhance pedestrian safety. Residents emphasized the need for solutions that not only ease traffic flow but also enhance the overall safety and livability of the area. By addressing these concerns through the installation of a roundabout the study suggests, the town can better manage vehicular movement, reduce travel delays, and create a safer environment for both motorists and pedestrians.
Further, the 2020 Springs Fireplace Corridor Study highlighted the public desire for a roundabout, to solve the congestion issues of this intersection. The most recent update to the study revealed that under current traffic conditions, vehicles are experiencing extreme delays beyond acceptable limits, leading to a Level of Service classification of “F.” Without intervention, future traffic scenarios are projected to maintain a “Level F” classification, threatening safety and economic activity in the area. To solve this issue a roundabout is suggested by the study, offering a proven solution to mitigate congestion and improve traffic flow.
“We look forward to working with County Legislator Ann Welker and the County Department of Public Works, should the referendum pass in November to advance this important initiative,” stated the Supervisor.