Night time closures on NY Route 111 just north and south of NY Route 347 in Hauppauge in the Town of Smithtown, Suffolk County are now underway. Traffic is still being maintained on NY Route 111, but short sections are being closed each night, Sunday through Thursday, for approximately two weeks, weather permitting.
These closures are needed to perform drainage work that would be too disruptive to the high volume of traffic during the day. Motorists are being warned in advance of the closings via electronic road signs but should plan ahead and use alternate routes to avoid delays.
The drainage improvements are being provided as part of the $26.8 million NY Route 347 safety, mobility, and environmental improvement project between NY Routes 347/454 and NY Route 111. As with any roadway project, this operation is weather dependent and may be canceled, postponed, or prolonged due to inclement weather. Emergency service providers, neighborhood schools, and the Town of Smithtown have been notified of the closures on NY Route 111.
Motorists are reminded of the recently expanded Move-Over Law that now includes all hazard vehicles with amber lights such as tow trucks and construction vehicles. On parkways and other major highways with multiple lanes, drivers must move to a travel lane away from a vehicle displaying amber, red, white, or blue flashing lights, or slow down. Violators face moving violation fines and points on their drivers’ licenses. Drivers should also be aware that fines are doubled for speeding in a work zone. In accordance with the Work Zone Safety Act, convictions of two or more speeding violations in a work zone could result in the suspension of an individual’s driver’s license.
For 24/7 up-to-date traffic and travel information, motorists should call 511 or visit www.511NY.org [2]. Motorists may also obtain travel information from the INFORM Transportation Management Center cameras at www.INFORMNY.com [3] and on their hand held communication devices at www.INFORMNY.mobi [4].
The New York State Department of Transportation [5] appreciates the patience and cooperation of motorists and local residents during this necessary road improvement operation.
