A series of work sessions with Assemblywoman Michelle Schimel, Senator Craig Johnson, Councilman Fred Pollack, the Port Washington Police Department, and the New York State Department of Transportation (DOT) have made great progress towards remedying the situation surrounding the multiple left turn restrictions along Route 101 Port Washington Boulevard in Port Washington.

"Making communities better and safer for our residents should be the goal of anyone who seeks to be a public servant," said Senator Craig M. Johnson, (D-Port Washington) "I am honored to have so many partners who were dedicated to finding a solution to the problems plaguing Route 101 and am looking forward to working with them again as we pursue our mutual goal of making Port Washington an even better and safer place for our families."

An alternate Route 101 center left turn plan has been put forth that will enhance public safety and traffic flow in the community. This plan allows for a dedicated northbound Route 101 left turn lane into Willowdale Avenue and a two way center left turn lane at Park Avenue and Davis Avenue. Please note that this plan will require a restriction of left turns in and out of Highland Avenue and Bar Beach Road.

"The elected officials, police, DOT, and civic leaders rolled up their sleeves in a cooperative effort to come up with a plan that is fair to residents and measurably increases public safety," said Assemblywoman Michelle Schimel.

In meetings with the leaders of the Park Civic Association, residents of the Park Place area and Steve Kaplan of the Town of North Hempstead Traffic Advisory Committee, a series of alternatives were considered. Overall the new DOT plan put forth ensures better southbound Route 101 left turn access to the residential neighborhood east of the highway while maintaining adequate parking for commercial enterprises on Route 101.

"Now residents can travel to and from their homes without having to go many blocks out of their way," said Councilman Pollack.

Changes to the traffic signs along Route 101 will be implemented immediately by New York State Department of Transportation and pavement marking will commence in the spring when weather allows.

"It is always the goal of the Port Washington Police Department and your elected officials to represent the unique needs of Port Washington especially when it comes to the safety of our residents," said Commissioner James Duncan of the Port Washington Police Department.