New York State Department of Transportation (DOT) has started a $3.5 million project that they said will enhance safety and improve travel for motorists, pedestrians, and transit users at the intersection of Port Washington Boulevard (State Route 101) and Middle Neck Road near Saint Francis Hospital in the Village of Flower Hill. Major construction is now underway and is scheduled for completion by the end of this year.
“Governor Hochul’s unwavering commitment to strengthening transportation infrastructure is essential to keeping Long Islanders moving safely and efficiently,” said DOT Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez. “By making strategic investments in critical corridors like Port Washington Boulevard, we are enhancing safety and resiliency while improving mobility and reliability at this important Nassau County intersection.”
Port Washington Boulevard carries approximately 30,000 vehicles each day and serves as a vital connection for residents and businesses on the Port Washington peninsula. Located at the center of this state highway corridor is Catholic Health’s Saint Francis Hospital and Heart Center, the only specialty-designated cardiac center in New York State.
Enhancements at this busy intersection will include:
- Construction of new sidewalks along northbound Port Washington Boulevard between Middle Neck Road and the existing NICE bus stop, and along southbound Port Washington Boulevard between Crabapple Road and Saint Francis Hospital’s northern driveway
- Installation of a new crosswalk across Middle Neck Road and the southern hospital entrance
- Modification of the existing traffic signal with an upgraded system featuring audible pedestrian signals and pedestrian countdown timers
- Extension and addition of turning lanes, along with lane reconfigurations to improve traffic flow and mobility
All new pavement markings, including crosswalks and lane markings, will use highly reflective materials to enhance visibility.
These upgrades will improve turning movements and pedestrian infrastructure, benefiting motorists, transit riders and pedestrians alike, the agency said. The DOT has coordinated closely with Saint Francis Hospital to ensure the improvements support safe and efficient access for patients, visitors and emergency vehicles.
Construction will be staged to maintain traffic flow and minimize disruptions, consistent with New York State’s Drivers First Initiative.
“This intersection is one of the busiest in our town, especially with Saint Francis Hospital right there, so improving safety is incredibly important,” North Hempstead Town Supervisor Jennifer DeSena said. “These upgrades will help make it safer and for drivers, pedestrians, patients, and emergency vehicles to get through the area every day.”
North Hempstead Town Councilwoman Mariann Dalimonte added, “I thank Governor Hochul and the State Department of Transportation for initiating this important intersection project near Saint Francis Hospital, which will not only enhance safety, but add sidewalks and a crosswalk as well. This is a very busy intersection located right in the heart of Nassau County and I appreciate New York State’s efforts to improve the quality of life for local residents.”