Ocean Parkway Coastal Greenway​ Path Completed In Time For Spring

LONG ISLAND, NY — The long-awaited Ocean Parkway Coastal Greenway path is finally complete — just in time for spring 2021. The multi-use path will allow cyclists, runners, skaters, and walkers to enjoy the scenic waterfront.

Construction of the third and final leg of the 10 miles path, which began in 2019, was complete between Tobay Beach in the Town of Oyster Bay and Captree State Park in the Towns of Babylon and Islip. Thanks to the mild winter in 2020, the path, which has been in the works since 2013, was completed three months ahead of schedule.

The first phase of the project was completed in 2013 and runs from the Ellen Farrant Memorial Bikeway along the Wantagh State Parkway to the Jones Beach Boardwalk and the second phase, completed in 2014, runs from Jones Beach to Tobay Beach. The trail also connects to the Jones Beach Shared Use Leisure Path on the barrier island's west end, which was completed ahead of schedule in 2019.

The path opened starting Wednesday to bicyclists and pedestrians. Visitors can enjoy views of the Great South Bay and the rising New York City skyline as well as hundreds of Long Island-native plantings, including beach grass, evergreen trees, bayberry plants, beach plums, and other native grasses and wildflowers to support pollinators such as bees and Monarch Butterfly restoration efforts.

"Tourism on Long Island is a $6.3 billion annual industry that draws visitors from around the globe to experience Long Island's world-class beaches and extensive outdoor offerings," Discover Long Island President & CEO Kristen Jarnagin said. "The addition of this new oceanfront, outdoor attraction that spans Ocean Parkway, connects to additional trails and boasts stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and Jones Beach is certain to be a new favorite for both residents and visitors alike."