The state Department of Transportation is reassessing approved projects in order to cut costs, which could mean bumpy roads ahead for Long Islanders.
Road and transportation projects that don?t impact public safety or have at least 75 percent federal funding could be postponed, according to the DOT.
Mark Hearbst, of the Long Island Contractors Association, says the delays aren?t only a matter of infrastructure improvement, but jobs as well. He says thousands of construction jobs hang in the balance. The DOT?s move could put the brakes on 12 projects scheduled to start in the spring including the expansion of Route 110 in Melville, according to Hearbst.
Others say taking a second look at infrastructure projects is warranted. ?You can't widen your way out of your transportation problems,? Eric Alexander, of Vision Long Island, says.
The DOT says it has not made any final decisions yet. Congressman Tim Bishop?s office says it is seeking federal funding so some of the road projects can move forward.
Click to see which Long Island road projects may be impacted by delays
NY State Dept. of Transportation