Suffolk Notebook: County to Reinvent Roadways

Suffolk County's dubious distinction of having some of the most dangerous roads in the state has led the Suffolk County Legislature to approve a bill meant to make new roads safer for all sorts of travelers.

The "Complete Streets Program" will require the county's Department of Public Works to consider ways to accommodate not just cars on the roads, but to design features for other modes of transport including bicyclists, buses and pedestrians.

"This bill sets the tone for Suffolk County when it designs its roadways. Now we must look to accommodate all users. Complete Streets is a smart program that should enhance the quality of life for everyone," Legis. Rob Calarco, D-Patchogue, said in a statement.

Suffolk County is already seeing one major roadway fix underway, a state-run project to convert Route 347 on the North Shore into a "greenway," which includes things such as bus stops and paths for bicyclists and pedestrians.

Suffolk IDA Offers Sandy Assistance

The county's Industrial Development Agency this week promoted a program to give tax relief to businesses struggling to pay for repairs to storm-damaged storefronts.

The program gives a tax break from state and county sales taxes to up to 200 businesses that have a physical storefront – not home-based – and suffered damages from Superstorm Sandy.

The tax break would extend for up to 6 months and the savings must be used to offset building costs related to repairs.

To be eligible, businesses may also have up to 50 full-time employees.

For more information, call 631-853-4802.