Work Begins On Final Leg Of Ocean Parkway Coastal Greenway Path

WANTAGH, NY — Construction is underway to add 10 miles of shared-use path to the Ocean Parkway Coastal Greenway in the towns of Oyster Bay, Babylon and Islip. The office of Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced Tuesday that work had begun on the final leg of the project.

Currently the path extends to Tobay Beach. When it's finished, it will reach Captree State Park, officials said.

Hundreds of native plants will be planted as part of the project, including beach grass, evergreen trees, bayberry plants and beach plums. Workers will also build rest stops every three miles or so along the path, which will provide some shade. Moreover, informational panels will be installed detailing the history of Long Island's beachfront and highlighting the new vegetation and local wildlife. Signage will also direct people to public facilities.

The path will be made of smooth asphalt for bicyclists and feature standard lane markings and signage. Bridges will be installed over existing pedestrian walkways and cable guide rails will separate the parkway from the greenway, acting as a safety barrier to separate motorists and path-users.

Bike parking areas will be installed at Gilgo Beach, Cedar Beach Marina and Captree State Park, officials said.

"The Ocean Parkway Coastal Greenway will provide cyclists, runners and walkers new opportunities to get outside while at the same time providing a new route for people to get to the many outdoor recreational activities the area has to offer," Cuomo said in a news release. "This extension will give more residents and visitors a safe, healthy and environmentally sound way to get around Long Island."

Major construction began after Labor Day weekend, officials said. The project is slated to be completed in the summer of 2021.

The greenway stretches along Ocean Parkway in the towns of Hempstead, Oyster Bay, Babylon, and Islip. The goal was to provide a continuous 14.4-mile shared-use path to connect the existing Wantagh State Parkway shared-use path to Captree State Park.

Steve Bellone, the Suffolk County executive, said the extension will promote the South Shore's scenery, reduce congestion and encourage a healthier and active lifestyle.

Marie Therese Dominguez, commissioner of the state Transportation Department, said the extension will encourage more cyclists, walkers and runners to get outdoors and enjoy Long Island's beaches and parks.

"It will provide an important link, connecting two of the state's largest State Parks, in the growing network of shared use paths that offer a green alternative to driving," said Dominguez.