The New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) has announced a significant roadwork project that will require overnight closures of a section of westbound Sunrise Highway (Route 27) in Brookhaven. The closures are scheduled to last for approximately four weeks, beginning this Sunday, to allow for concrete pavement repairs.
Key Takeaways
- A section of westbound Sunrise Highway in Brookhaven will be closed overnight for about four weeks.
- Closures will occur between Exit 53 (Route 112) and Exit 55 (County Road 101/Sills Road).
- The schedule is from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m., Sunday through Thursday, weather permitting.
- The project is for necessary concrete pavement repairs to improve road conditions.
- A specific detour route has been established for all affected traffic.
Details of the Scheduled Closures
The New York State Department of Transportation has detailed a plan for road maintenance that will affect overnight travel in Suffolk County. The project specifically targets the westbound lanes of Sunrise Highway, a critical artery for Long Island commuters and residents.
The closures will be in effect between Exit 53 for Route 112 and Exit 55 for County Road 101, also known as Sills Road. This multi-week project is set to begin on Sunday and will proceed based on weather conditions. Any significant weather events could potentially alter the schedule.
Closure Schedule at a Glance
- Location: Westbound Sunrise Highway (Route 27) in the Town of Brookhaven.
- Affected Exits: Between Exit 53 and Exit 55.
- Duration: Approximately four weeks.
- Days: Sunday through Thursday nights.
- Hours: 10 p.m. to 5 a.m.
These overnight hours were selected to minimize disruption to the heavy daytime traffic that Sunrise Highway typically experiences. However, drivers who travel late at night or early in the morning for work or other reasons will need to plan for delays and use the designated detour.
Purpose of the Construction Project
According to a statement from the NYSDOT, the primary goal of this project is to "facilitate concrete pavement repairs." Concrete roads, while durable, are subject to wear and tear from heavy traffic volume, temperature fluctuations, and moisture. Over time, this can lead to cracks, potholes, and uneven surfaces.
Performing these repairs is essential for maintaining driver safety and ensuring the longevity of the roadway. The work involves removing damaged sections of the concrete and replacing them with new, more resilient materials. This process requires heavy machinery and a clear work zone, making the full closure of the highway section necessary for the safety of both construction crews and the public.
Regular maintenance projects like this are a standard part of infrastructure management and help prevent more extensive and costly repairs in the future. By addressing the pavement issues now, the NYSDOT aims to provide a smoother and safer driving experience for the thousands of motorists who use this portion of Sunrise Highway daily.
Official Detour Route for Motorists
To guide drivers around the closed section of the highway, the NYSDOT has established a clear and official detour route. All westbound traffic on Sunrise Highway will be directed to exit the highway and follow a series of local roads to bypass the construction zone.
Step-by-Step Detour Instructions:
- Traffic will be diverted off Sunrise Highway at Exit 55 onto northbound Sills Road (County Road 101).
- Drivers will then proceed to westbound Woodside Avenue (County Road 99).
- From Woodside Avenue, motorists will travel to Route 112.
- Finally, drivers will use Route 112 to access the entrance ramp and rejoin the westbound lanes of Sunrise Highway.
Motorists are strongly advised to follow this designated route and not rely on GPS applications that may suggest alternative side streets. These smaller roads may not be equipped to handle the increased volume of highway traffic, potentially causing congestion in residential areas.
Planning Your Overnight Travel
Drivers who must travel through this area during the closure hours should plan for additional travel time. Even with the detour, some delays are possible. Checking traffic conditions before beginning a trip is recommended to avoid unexpected congestion.
How to Stay Informed
The NYSDOT will use several methods to keep the public updated on the project's progress and any potential changes to the schedule. Electronic message signs will be positioned near the work zone to provide real-time information and alerts to drivers approaching the closure.
"Electronic message signs will be placed near the work zone to advise motorists of any additional relevant traveler information," the NYSDOT stated in its announcement.
For more comprehensive information, travelers have several resources available. The NYSDOT provides updates for the Long Island region on its social media channels, including Facebook and X (formerly Twitter). The official department website, dot.ny.gov, also contains information on this and other state-run construction projects.
Additionally, New York State's official traveler information service, 511NY, is a key resource. Motorists can get real-time traffic updates by calling 511 or by visiting the website at 511NY.org. This service provides information on road closures, traffic speeds, and incidents across the state.
