Long Islanders eagerly await the first signs of spring—the subtle yet reassuring clues that warmer weather is on its way. We watch for the emergence of crocuses and native perennials like butterfly milkweed, creeping phlox, carnations, and plantain lilies, signaling that winter is finally releasing its grip.
But another unmistakable sign of the changing season isn’t found in flower beds—it’s found on our roadways. Bright orange “Road Work Ahead” signs begin to dot the landscape, accompanied by a seasonal symphony: the roar of heavy machinery, the rhythmic beeping of trucks in reverse, and the grinding and pounding of asphalt and steel. These sounds herald the start of Long Island’s heavy construction season.
From St. Patrick’s Day to Thanksgiving, the region experiences its peak period for infrastructure projects. This window of relatively stable weather provides the best conditions for constructing and rehabilitating Long Island’s roads, bridges, rail systems, parks, sewers, utilities, and waterways. As the season begins, the multi-generational, union-affiliated contractor firms across Long Island eagerly anticipate the rollout of new projects planned by state, county, and local agencies.
While government public works departments handle routine maintenance, minor repairs, and smaller-scale improvements, they rely on the private sector to execute large-scale, technologically complex infrastructure projects. This partnership between municipalities and private contractors ensures that Nassau and Suffolk counties benefit from a safe, efficient, and reliable infrastructure network.
How Are Public Works Contracts Awarded?
By law, public works contracts are awarded to the lowest responsible bidders—contractors who not only submit the most competitive bids but also demonstrate the capability to complete the projects safely, on time, and to the required standards. The process, known as letting, is how government agencies and private entities invite bids for construction work. It marks the beginning of the contractual relationship between project owners and contractors and sets the stage for the upcoming season’s work.
As Long Islanders look forward to blooming landscapes and the return of red robins, the construction industry eagerly anticipates new lettings that will drive the region’s infrastructure improvements. To mark the start of the season, the Long Island Contractors’ Association (LICA) is hosting its annual Spring Letting Breakfast—a key event where public-sector leaders unveil their project plans for the months ahead.
The event will take place on Friday, March 14, at 8:00 AM at the Stonebridge Country Club in Smithtown. Contractors and community stakeholders will gather to hear insights from prominent officials, including:
- Rob Free, President, Long Island Rail Road
- Chip Gorman, Regional Director, New York State Parks
- Rich Causin, Regional Director, New York State Department of Transportation
- Mike Kwaschyn, Commissioner, Nassau County Public Works
- Charlie Bartha, Commissioner, Suffolk County Public Works
With these presentations, Long Island’s construction industry will spring ahead—ensuring another season of progress, safety, and economic vitality for the region.
