Assemblyman Ed Ra (R-Franklin Square) questioned Department of Transportation Commissioner Matthew Driscoll at Wednesday’s Joint Budget Hearing on Transportation in Albany. Ra, a member of the Assembly’s Transportation Committee, focused on securing funding to repair dangerous parts of the Hempstead Turnpike which runs largely through his Assembly District.

“Hempstead Turnpike is the gateway into our community and is a major artery for businesses and customers to connect,” Ra said. “While there has been much focus on increasing safety for pedestrians and motorists, it is the roadway itself that is in desperate need of repair. A better Hempstead Turnpike means a more attractive place for our local small businesses to draw their customers and safer daily travels for our residents.”