Loop Parkway closing to all traffic this weekend

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The New York State Department of Transportation said motorists can expect a full closure of the Loop Parkway this weekend between the Meadowbrook State Parkway and Lido Boulevard.

The parkway will be closed to all traffic from 10 p.m. on Friday, March 29, until 5 a.m. on Monday, April 1, as part of major structural, electrical and mechanical improvements to the drawbridge over Long Creek.

Marine traffic will also not be permitted to pass under the drawbridge. A detour between the Long Beach barrier island and Long Island’s mainland is available via the Long Beach Bridge.

Drivers are recommended to follow the detour signs that have been placed along the route. The DOT coordinated these closures with local emergency response teams, local elected officials and civic organizations, the United States Coast Guard as well as the local maritime community.

“We appreciate the patience and cooperation of motorists, boaters, and the local community while this bridge maintenance project is undertaken to help assure the continued protection for all,” DOT representatives said in a statement.

Major work for the project is being done during the cold weather months to minimize disruption to marine and vehicular traffic during the summer tourism season. The bridge and the nearby drawbridge on the Meadowbrook State Parkway over Sloop Channel, both built in 1934, are undergoing a $22.5 million strengthening project with enhancements that include structural repairs of the draw spans as well as mechanical and electrical repairs, including new navigation lighting.

Work on both bridges began in the fall of 2017 and is scheduled for completion later this year. Additional information about this project can be found online at www.dot.ny.gov/drawbridge-repairs.