As we enjoy the first week of August, our amazing labor force has a busy week ahead. Some of you may have noticed repairs and renovations underway while driving past Whisper the Bull. In about a week, a new freestanding wall and “Smithtown” sign will be complete.
The plans to improve our historic landmark include all new landscaping as designed by David Barnes, Asst. Planning Director, & one of the top Landscape Architects in the region. A bronze plaque will adorn the base of the bull and new lighting will properly illuminate Whisper, so he may be admired at all hours.
About a month ago, the Highway Department was dispatched to a collapsed drain pipe near the historic General Store. While they repair the roads and infrastructure, our Traffic Safety Director presented a spectacular project using available capital in the department's budget…at no additional expense to you, the taxpayer. This exciting makeover will provide for a number of pedestrian and driver safety measures surrounding the St. James General Store. This is a fantastic downtown revitalization project at the end of the Lake Avenue business district.
Two solar powered pedestrian crosswalk beacons will be installed, along with a cobblestone style pedestrian crosswalk and new handicapped accessible sidewalks adjoining to the Deepwells parking area. Finally, a new island, or a “bulbout,” is being built at the Harbor Hill Rd. & Moriches corner. This is a modern technique used to prevent blind spots for turning cars, and it provides a safe waiting area for pedestrians. The entire project is expected to be completed by the time our kids head back to school.
Speaking of Downtown Revitalization, most of you already know that roadwork and infrastructure installation along Lake Avenue, south of Woodlawn, has begun. At present, we’ve re-routed traffic during the installation of the water main and asphalt. Residents along Lake Avenue and side roads have asked the town to increase public safety in the area.
The 4th precinct has installed solar powered Radar Enforced speed signs, and has added an extra presence in the area. Last weekend alone, Suffolk County Police Department issued twelve summonses along the construction zone. Our Traffic Safety team has also ordered a pedestrian safety and traffic study for the Lake Avenue Business corridor. Once the road construction has concluded, pedestrian safety measures and features such as crosswalks & additional stop signs will be installed.
As you drive through downtown Smithtown, Kings Park and St James, you might notice our Parks and Municipal Services teams working hard in the summer heat. They are cleaning up our sidewalks, weeding, mulching, and trimming brush areas throughout the downtown business districts.
I’m also very pleased to let our young Smithtown families know that Morewoood Park will have a brand new playground in another week. We want to thank the residents in the community who reached out to the town with their input. We hope you and your families enjoy every moment of time spent in this new park.