This has been a busy two weeks for the Hempstead Turnpike Revitalization Committee. After meeting the concerns of the emergency personnel, two members of the committee met with Department of Transportation officials the last week in January. A local landscape designer from Island Trees volunteered his expertise to assist the landscape selection on this multi-million dollar project and his expertise was welcomed by the committee.

Gary Hudes, revitalization coordinator and Assemblywoman Kate Murray joined with Island Trees landscape designer Tim Conway, and the DOT senior landscape architect, design project engineer and design unit supervisor assigned to this major beautification project.

Although preliminary landscape plans were submitted to the revitalization committee by the DOT, members of the committee felt that suggestions could be made to make the plans even more beautiful for the communities affected by the revitalization plans. "This plan for our turnpike will make our community the envy of so many others, so why not make it spectacular with something a little different" said Hudes. "When visitors see this project complete, they will have no choice but to comment upon the beauty of our community".

Hudes sought out Conway after seeing an example of his work created in Hicksville at the corner of Jerusalem Ave and Route 107 constructed by Conway's employer, Geral Associates of Woodbury. Conway is a landscape designer with more than 30 years experience, a graduate of Island Trees High School and SUNY Farmingdale's Ornamental Horticulture Program. He has been a resident of Levittown for 50 years. "I'm glad to help with this project" exclaimed Conway", I love Levittown, it's a great place to grow up. I'm glad to help improve the look of the turnpike and make it another great aspect of Levittown". Conway examined one section of the proposed project and made some design changes that the DOT will take into consideration when making changes in the types of trees, shrubs and perennials being planted.

This extensive meeting was hosted by New York State Assemblywoman Kate Murray, who has been hands-on the project from day one. "Other communities have a little Main Street" said Murray. "The turnpike is our Main Street, and this project will go a long way in making it the inviting thoroughfare Levittown deserves." Murray's office serves as the committee headquarters for this beautification project.

Final landscape plans are expected to be completed shortly so that any organizations affected, can review them and comment.