LIE Welcome Center Set To Open But Concerns From Neighbors, Truckers Persist
DIX HILLS, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) -- It's estimated that more than 200,000 cars pass by Exit 51 on the Long Island Expressway every day.
That's the spot where a new multi-million dollar welcome center is about to open its doors.
As CBS2's Jennifer McLogan reports, it could be ready by Friday.
After decades of quibbling, a welcome center is about to finally open for the first time on the Long Island Expressway.
The finishing touches of the $20-million project were being put on this week, just over the Suffolk County border.
"It will bring more tourism out east and help the economy on the island," an official said.
There will be lighted parking for 135 vehicles, round the clock access to 30 toilets, and dozens of vending machines.
Not everyone is pleased. Some residents in Dix Hills that back up to the rest stop have responded by putting their houses on the market.
They say they're worried about quality of life issues like noise and crime.
"Trash and everything coming up, crowded," one resident said.
The state negotiated with homeowners. The welcome center -- located between exits 51 and 52 -- has banned buses and tractor trailers. Truckers will be moved farther east to exit 56 westbound, and exit 65 eastbound.
"Rest is crucial because you have to have your ten hour break, for the safety of motorists around you," tractor-trailer driver Richard Zetsche explained.
Some truckers complain that little is done to accommodate them despite the amount of freight they move every day.
State Assemblyman Andrew Raia has another concern -- alcohol. The state wants to promote and sell New York state wines and craft beers -- bottled and sealed -- at the rest stop.
"Heaven forbid a group is going to the vineyards, and decided to start their party early. The last thing we want to see are more fatalities on the Long Island Expressway," Raia said.
Will there be a compromise such as coupons for wine and beer, rather than the real thing? It has yet to be formally announced just what will be sold inside of the 'Taste of New York' food store.
The rest stop will not sell gas or fast food, but will have state and county police satellite offices.