Assemblymen Michael Durso (R-Massapequa Park) and Jarett Gandolfo (R,C-Sayville) are calling on the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) to accelerate the timeline for the rehabilitation of the Robert Moses Causeway Bridge over the Fire Island Inlet to begin this year, instead of 2027.

Their request follows a viral video that showed a hole in the bridge large enough to stop drivers in their tracks(view video here), which required emergency repairs before the bridge could be safely reopened to traffic.

“You don’t slap patches on a bridge and hope for the best-you fix it the right way,” said Durso. “NYSDOT needs to expedite a full repair instead of relying on short-term fixes for two years, because when it comes to safety, there’s no room for shortcuts.”

The Fire Island Inlet Bridge serves as a vital link between mainland communities and the beloved beaches of Robert Moses State Park, as well as access to Fire Island. It supports seasonal tourism, recreation and the many small local businesses that rely on summer visitors. As a key gateway to one of Long Island’s most treasured destinations, the bridge plays an essential role in the region’s economy and quality of life.

“We appreciate NYSDOT’s swift response in completing emergency repairs and reopening the bridge,” said Gandolfo. “However, I don’t think anyone is comfortable with the pavement eroding to the point that we can see the water below. It’s clear that the total rehabilitation of the bridge needs to be done sooner. Waiting until 2027 to begin construction presents unnecessary risks to public safety and the long-term integrity of this critical infrastructure.”

Under the current schedule, construction is not expected to begin until fall 2027, with completion projected for spring 2028. Gandolfo and Durso expressed concern that further deterioration could occur during that time, potentially resulting in additional safety hazards, traffic disruptions or closures.

The lawmakers emphasized their willingness to work collaboratively with NYSDOT and state leadership to help move the project forward as quickly and efficiently as possible.

“We thank the department for its continued work maintaining our region’s transportation infrastructure and stand ready to assist in any way that helps expedite this project,” the legislators said.