Empire State Review Team 
Long Island’s Innovative Tunnel Project for Wildlife Protection
LONG ISLAND – In a remarkable effort to safeguard local wildlife, the Town of Brookhaven has installed a 25-foot tunnel beneath a busy road in Middle Island. This initiative is designed to prevent small animals such as frogs and raccoons from being harmed while they traverse the road to reach their breeding grounds and nearby tidal pools.
Project Overview
The newly constructed tunnel provides a safe passage for various animal species during their critical breeding season. “It’s breeding season, they have reproduction on their minds and they’re moving back-and-forth,” noted John Turner, a land management specialist for the town. Disturbingly, many frogs and other small animals had previously lost their lives on this stretch of road.
Successful Implementation
Since the tunnel’s installation, wildlife experts have observed that the local animal population quickly adapted to the new structure. “Once we installed the tunnel, all the animals figured out this was the place to go,” explained Luke Ormand, a senior environmental analyst with Brookhaven.
Project Statistics
- Project Cost: Approximately $40,000
- Tunnel Length: 25 feet
- Overall Town Budget: Over $360 million, as reported by Highway Superintendent Daniel Losquadro, who emphasized the project’s value.
The Importance of Wildlife Protection
This initiative serves not only to reduce wildlife fatalities but also as a pioneering model for municipalities aiming to support local ecosystems with minimal infrastructure modifications. As the first tunnel of its kind on Long Island, local officials hope it will inspire further environmental projects across the region.
Conclusion
By addressing the pressing issue of animal fatalities on the roads, the Town of Brookhaven is taking significant strides towards fostering a more harmonious coexistence between human infrastructure and wildlife. This tunnel serves as a proactive step in wildlife preservation efforts, ensuring that local ecosystems continue to thrive.
