Some Politicians Oppose 'Billy Joel Boulevard' Because The Singer Hasn't Died Yet

Legislation to name part of a Long Island highway after musician Billy Joel was passed in the state Senate for the third year in a row, but some members of the Assembly don't think Joel should be alive to see it happen.

This legislation would designate a portion of Route 107, between Lenox Avenue and the Northern State Parkway in Hicksville, as “Billy Joel Boulevard.”

The next stop for the legislation, after it passed in the state Senate, is to pass through the state Assembly. While Gov. Andrew Cuomo reportedly expressed his support for this measure, some Assembly members apparently oppose the legislation because Joel is still alive, Sen. Jack Martins says. These politicians believe he should only receive this honor until after he is dead.

Martins, however, believes Joel is deserving to see his hometown dedicate a road in his honor while he's still alive. “There are many examples of people who received similar honors during their lifetime,” Martins, who sponsored the legislation, said.

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The Queensboro Bridge, for example, was renamed after former Mayor Ed Koch while he was still alive, and New York City renamed one of its municipal buildings after former Mayor David Dinkins last year.

“I’m sure both men were very touched by these tributes and grateful to see them in person,” Martins said. “Billy Joel deserves the same. It’s long past time for the Assembly to get on board and approve this legislation.”

The Long Island entertainer and philanthropist may be a six-time Grammy award winner, but he has never forgotten his roots. Joel owns a home in Oyster Bay and was the only person who could give a proper farewell to Nassau Coliseum. After Long Island was devastated by Hurricane Sandy, Joel performed as part of the “12.12.12 Concert for Sandy Relief” to help raise awareness and funds for the victims of Hurricane Sandy. Joel has also played concerts to raise funds for local food banks to serve Long Islanders in need and donated $1.5 million from his foundation to help keep the Long Island High School for the Arts open when it was in danger of closing.

“His charitable acts and efforts on behalf of Long Islanders are as legendary as his music,” Martins said. “‘Billy Joel Boulevard’ is a much deserved honor in recognition of his professional success and the many ways he has given back to his beloved Long Island.”