Questionable Civic Boosterism
In the wake of a fire that disabled the Throgs Neck Bridge, Long Island and state officials are contemplating construction of a new L.I. Sound crossing. This would be a 16-mile tunnel connecting Oyster Bay in Long Island to Rye, NY, the home of summer camps and amusement parks in Westchester County. The Cross-Sound tunnel would cost at least $25 billion, and would charge one-way tolls of $25. For those who would question the value of such a project, as well as its staggering costs and potential environmental impact, Oyster Bay (Long Island) Supervisor John Venditto justifies the proposal thusly: “I don’t think you can ever have too many ways to get off of Long Island.” To this, dear reader, your writer can add little of value.