Stony Brook University Awarded $1M Grant for Safe Streets Initiative

Stony Brook University has been awarded a $1 million grant under the Safe Streets for All (SS4A)program, aimed at enhancing pedestrian safety and connectivity on and around the campus. This significant funding from the Department of Transportation will be used to develop a comprehensive action plan focusing on creating a safer environment for pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles.

The primary objective of the grant is to fund a detailed study to assess and improve campus safety, with an emphasis on exploring and designing a pedestrian overpass over Nicolls Road. This potential overpass will connect Stony Brook’s East and West campuses, addressing a critical safety gap and improving access for students and staff. The initiative will also explore other enhancements such as better traffic management and pedestrian infrastructure.

“The grant award is an essential precursor in our efforts to obtain Department of Transportation funds in order to effectively execute the project,” said Jed Shivers, senior vice president for Finance and Administration. “We now have a real opportunity to improve pedestrian safety and accessibility at this location, as this project represents a significant step toward achieving that goal. I extend my congratulations to our Campus Planning, Design and Construction teams on securing this notable grant.”

The scope of the study extends beyond the university grounds, and will encompass a broad area including Route 25A, Nicolls Road, Stony Brook Road, and the surrounding community, including the Research and Development Park. 

To ensure a thorough approach to the study, Stony Brook has engaged with various stakeholders and has reached out to local civic groups, government officials, and community members to gather input and support for the initiative and to integrate community feedback into the planning process, and will be further engaging the community and government partners throughout this process.

A steering committee will oversee the study, which will involve analyzing data from peer institutions and reviewing existing infrastructure models. As part of the proposal process, Stony Brook has examined successful pedestrian overpass projects at other universities to inform the development of their own plan. The committee will next review consultants, who will complete a comprehensive safety action plan for the university and surrounding areas. 

While the study is still in its initial phases, the grant represents a significant first step toward enhancing safety and accessibility at Stony Brook and for the surrounding communities. It includes provisions for community outreach and engagement, emphasizing that the safety improvements will benefit both the campus and the surrounding areas. Future growth of the campus will be considered in the planning to ensure that the infrastructure can accommodate increasing demands.

— Beth Squire