A Syosset intersection where a fatal car accident occurred last July will receive several improvements from the Nassau County Department of Public Works.

The decision to improve the intersection of South Oyster Bay Road and Hicks Avenue was made following a DWP study of the crossing, done at the urging of Nassau County Legislator Judy Jacobs, who often seeks to eliminate dangerous intersections.

In a memo written to Jacobs, DPW Director of Traffic Engineering Joseph G. Pecora wrote, "We will issue a work order to install a 'No Turn on Red' sign, which should enhance the safety of this intersection." The sign is intended for drivers heading west on Hicks Avenue, who want to make a right-hand turn onto South Oyster Bay Road. The sight distance is limited for drivers making that turn.

DPW Commissioner John M. Waltz, in another memo, said that the traffic light at that intersection will be modified so that it provides a longer clearance interval. "The modification will provide additional time for vehicles to clear the intersection before the start of the next green phase," Waltz explained.

In addition, tree branches will be trimmed to increase visibility.

"To see how quickly the Department of Public Works' response was to a legitimate, absolute concern that I expressed on the behalf of residents, is a wonderful indication of government in action," said Jacobs.

"I am so pleased that the Department of Public Works of Nassau County recognizes the urgency of correcting what is so wrong with this intersection," Jacobs continued. "I am heartened by it, but also saddened by the death of a very special person in the community."

On July 21, a 60-year-old woman was killed when another driver drove through a red light and struck her car.

The intersection is actually scheduled to be part of a larger county project, slated to begin early next year, which will rebuild the entire traffic signal infrastructure at this location. In his memo, Waltz noted, "During the design of this project, we will evaluate the need for further improvements."