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Good news for beachgoers: the Smith Point Bridge is expected to reopen both lanes of traffic ahead of Memorial Day weekend.
Suffolk County officials announced Tuesday that repairs to the bridge will be completed this week, clearing the way for both lanes to reopen in time for the unofficial start of summer at Smith Point County Park.
The update comes after months of traffic concerns at one of Suffolk’s busiest beach gateways. The bridge briefly closed this past fall after inspections revealed structural issues. It later reopened in November with a one-lane traffic pattern controlled by lights while repair work continued.
That temporary setup had many Long Islanders worried about major backups heading into beach season, especially after videos circulated this past weekend showing long lines of vehicles waiting to cross the bridge.
“We are pleased to reopen the Smith Point Bridge for residents and visitors ahead of Memorial Day weekend,” county officials said in a statement. “We thank everyone for their patience, understanding, and cooperation throughout the repair process as crews worked to complete these important improvements safely and efficiently.”
Smith Point County Park, located on the eastern end of Fire Island, is one of Suffolk’s most popular summer destinations. The bridge is the lone roadway link between the mainland and the beach.
“Smith Point is one of Suffolk County’s most treasured destinations, and reopening the bridge in time for Memorial Day weekend is welcome news for residents, visitors, and local businesses alike,” Legislator Jim Mazzarella said. “I appreciate the hard work of everyone involved in completing these repairs as quickly and safely as possible.”
The 1959 drawbridge has been under scrutiny since a routine state Department of Transportation inspection revealed structural issues last fall. Suffolk County initially imposed emergency weight limits before restoring the bridge to a 15-ton weight limit with the one-lane traffic pattern in place.
County officials have said the repairs were needed to strengthen the aging bridge while plans continue for a full replacement.
A new Smith Point Bridge is already in the works. Suffolk County is in the final design stages for a 1,812-foot arch bridge that would be built immediately west of the current span. The new bridge would eliminate the need for drawbridge openings and include improved traffic flow, marine clearance and an ADA-accessible pedestrian and bicycle path.
Construction on the replacement bridge is expected to begin in 2026, with the current bridge staying in service until the new one is complete.
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