Hauppauge, NY - September 2014 - The federally funded Port Jefferson-Wading River Rails to Trails appropriation of funds for the planning, engineering and construction was unanimously approved by the Suffolk County Legislature at the September 9th Meeting of the full Legislature. The 10 mile green trail project, which started over 15 years ago, will proceed to the design stage. At this stage, the local community will provide input which will be vital to meet the residents design desires.
“The Rails to Trails project continues to be long process, but I am thrilled that the funds for the design planning stage have been approved. The proximity of the trail will support our local businesses, and compliment the Tesla Museum and downtown revitalization of Rocky Point,” said Legislator Anker. “Last year a resident was struck and killed by a car as she jogged along Canal Road in Mt. Sinai. The trail will provide a place where all residents, especially our kids, can use to enjoy the outdoors in a safe place.”
“It's great, long overdue,” said Wading River Civic President Sid Bail. “I look forward to the next phase, the actual construction.”
“If we don’t move forward and complete the trail, another state will take the funds and do their own trail,” Anker said. “This is a once in a life time opportunity to enhance the character of our north shore. It’s an opportunity we can’t turn down.”
Pictured: Suffolk County Legislator Sarah Anker is joined by County Executive Bellone, Congressman Tim Bishop, LIPA’s Vice President of Environmental Affairs Michael Deering, Friends of Tesla President Jane Alcorn and civic leaders to announce Suffolk County’s plans to advance the Rails to Trails pedestrian and bike path in August 2013.
