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Business Owners Raise Concerns Over Roadway Renovations In Smithtown

SMITHTOWN, NY (CBSNewYork) -- Fixing a dangerous, deadly stretch of roadway on Long Island is raising concerns in the business community.

WCBS 880's Mike Xirinachs reports

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There have been three pedestrian fatalities in the past three years along Main Street through the heart of Smithtown.

As the state plans to begin renovations to make the road safer, many business owners are worried about the impact the constriction may have.

"You're going to be hurting businesses by taking away sidewalks and coming into parking lots," said one business owner.

"My lease is up in June, I'm looking to probably get out of here to begin with, just because of the amount of headache it's going to be getting around town," said another.

Some say building traffic roundabouts and pedestrian walkways would be less disruptive than the state's current plan.

"Overpasses, for people to walk over instead," said one business owner. "Maybe limit the trucks coming through."

Renovations are set to begin next month. For more information, visit www.dot.ny.gov.

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