Long Island Expressway (I-495)

6.0

3.0

8.0

6.0

7.0

TOTAL SCORE = 30.0 (out of 50)

Reviewed by: Steve Anderson
Last Traveled: 2005

SAFETY
CONGESTION
PAVEMENT CONDITION     
CLARITY OF SIGNING         
AESTHETICS                       

6
3
8
6
7

They don't call it "the world's longest parking lot" for nothing. The "LIE" has been plagued by chronic congestion since the sections of it opened in the 1950's. Construction of new HOV lanes during the past decade have helped somewhat, but not enough to bring up an otherwise dismal grade. Concurrent reconstruction of the main roadway during this period also provided a smoother road surface. However, safety remains a question mark, particularly along the section under reconstruction between eastern Queens and western Nassau.

Built in the early days on the Interstate system (although not initially signed as one), the LIE is not particularly noted for its aesthetics. However, recent reconstruction (particularly in Nassau County) has brought design touches reminiscent of Robert Moses' parkways. Traveling into western Queens on the LIE, the panoramic view of the Manhattan skyline is tough to beat.


I-495 shield by Ralph Herman.

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