Lillian VestNew York Gov. Kathy Hochul announced two investments totaling $21 million to address flooding and improve infrastructure along Long Island’s South Shore.
The projects are located in Suffolk and Nassau Counties, with grants totaling $11.7 million and $9.5 million, respectively. Work includes drainage and stormwater upgrades along the Meadowbrook and Wantagh State Parkways, and improvements on Merrick Road, according to a release from the Hochul administration.
With the funding, Suffolk County will replace an old culvert that carries Amityville Creek and upgrade infrastructure to reduce flooding in residential areas. The county will raise Merrick Road above the 100-year flood elevation, widening the culvert and adding new shoulders, sidewalks and bike access. County officials expect construction to be completed in spring of 2027.
In Nassau County, improvements include drainage upgrades and flood mitigation improvements at the Meadowbrook State Parkway at Merrick Road and Wantagh State Parkway at Bay Parkway within Jones Beach State Park. The county will install pump stations, outflow pipes and check valves. Construction is expected to be completed in spring of 2026.
This funding is part of a flood resiliency push that began after Hurricane Sandy in 2012. Since Hurricane Sandy, Long Island has seen several projects seeking to enhance flood resilience and improve infrastructure.
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