By Francis X. Murray
Best wishes to our residents, businesses and families as we welcome 2026. As we turn the page on another year, it’s important to pause and reflect on the many great strides our village made in 2025 and the strong foundation those accomplishments provide as we move forward.
The past year was defined by progress, resilience and a shared commitment to maintaining the high quality of life that makes our community such a special place to call home. In 2026 we will continue to build on those successes with purpose, care and a renewed focus on serving our residents.
None of what we achieved in 2025 would have been possible without the dedication and professionalism of our village employees. In every department, our workforce shows up each day with a deep sense of responsibility and pride in public service. From maintaining our infrastructure and public spaces to supporting essential operations behind the scenes, their efforts often go unnoticed, but never unappreciated. I extend my sincere thanks to every employee for their hard work, expertise and unwavering commitment to our community.
We are also profoundly grateful to our first responders, who stand ready at all times to protect life and property. Last year alone, our Police Department answered roughly 18,000 calls, demonstrating their constant presence and vigilance throughout the village. Equally remarkable was the service provided by our all-volunteer Fire Department, which responded to over 3,500 calls in 2025. These volunteers leave their homes, their families and their daily responsibilities at a moment’s notice to help neighbors in need. Their selflessness and courage represent the very best of our village spirit.
Thanks to a $900,000 grant secured by former State Sen. Kevin Thomas, we have taken an important step toward strengthening our emergency response capabilities. We’ve ordered a new fire truck, and we’re hopeful it will be placed in service this year. This investment will help ensure that our firefighters have the modern equipment they need to continue protecting our community safely and effectively.
Looking ahead, 2026 will be a year of significant investment in infrastructure and long-term planning. One of the major initiatives will be the 2026 Road Program, which will involve curb work, drainage improvements and repaving of several key streets. The plan includes Thomas, Brompton, Whitehall and Knollwood roads as well as South Marion Place. The improvements are scheduled for late spring and early summer, and will enhance safety, mobility and neighborhood appearance.
We are also planning substantial upgrades to several municipal parking lots. Concrete replacement and paving are scheduled for Parking Field 5, behind the former Police Department building; Field 9, behind Tap Room; Field 6, behind Glynn’s Funeral Home; and the Lister Park parking field on Sunrise Highway. This work is anticipated to take place this summer and fall, and will improve accessibility and overall conditions for residents and visitors alike.
Protecting and modernizing our water infrastructure remains a top priority. The 2026 Water Main and Hydrant Replacement Program will include work on Aldred and Cleveland avenues, Murray Court and Harrison, Driscoll and Windsor avenues. Scheduled for the summer and fall, these upgrades are essential to maintaining reliable water service and fire protection while proactively addressing aging infrastructure.
In addition, we will be investing in lighting and electrical improvements throughout the village. Lighting infrastructure upgrades are planned for Thomas, Brompton, Whitehall and Knollwood roads in early spring. Further lighting and electric infrastructure upgrades will take place in Parking Fields 5, 9 and 6, as well as the Lister Park parking field, in the spring and summer.
These projects will enhance safety, visibility and energy efficiency. Our Department of Public Works main garage roof replacement is also scheduled for spring and summer, which will ensure that our facilities remain safe and functional for the employees who rely on them.
We move into 2026 with a renewed commitment to our residents and to the future of our village. We will continue to invest thoughtfully, plan responsibly and listen closely to the needs of the community. Together, with the continued support of our residents, volunteers, employees and first responders, we will build on our successes and ensure that our village remains a safe, welcoming and thriving place for generations to come.
Francis X. Murray is the mayor of Rockville Centre.
