Navigating Smithtown: Connectivity on Long Island's North Shore

The Town of Smithtown, located in Suffolk County, New York, is defined by its robust infrastructure that connects residents not only within the large township but also to New York City and the rest of Long Island. Its transportation system blends the crucial service of the Long Island Rail Road with a comprehensive highway network, making it a key hub for commuters and residents.

Rail Service: The Long Island Rail Road (LIRR)

The backbone of Smithtown's public transportation is the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR). The town is served by the Port Jefferson Branch, providing essential commuter access to New York City.

• LIRR Stations: Smithtown has three active LIRR stations: Smithtown, St. James, and Kings Park.
• Connectivity: From these stations, commuters have direct access to Penn Station in Manhattan and Grand Central Terminal via the LIRR's City Terminal Zone, linking the North Shore directly to the heart of New York City.

Major Highways and Roadways

Smithtown is bisected by several major state and federal highways, crucial for internal travel and regional access.

• Interstate 495 (I-495—Long Island Expressway): Often called the "L.I.E.," this is Long Island's main artery. Although it runs along the southern border of the town, it is the primary route for fast travel across the island and is easily accessible from any point in Smithtown.
• Major Parkways: The town is also served by the Northern State Parkway and the Sunken Meadow State Parkway (Route 347), which provide key routes for both scenic and commuter travel.
• Route 347 (The Nesconset Highway): This major surface route runs east-west through the heart of the town, serving as the main commercial corridor and connecting the Smithtown area to destinations like Hauppauge and Port Jefferson.
• Route 25 (Jericho Turnpike): This historic route also serves as a busy commercial road through the town.

Bus and Local Transit

Local public transportation is provided by Suffolk County Transit (SCT). The bus system connects the town's various hamlets and neighboring communities.

• Key Routes: SCT routes such as the S54, S58, S60, and S62 link the Smithtown LIRR station and surrounding areas to major hubs like the Hauppauge Industrial Park, Stony Brook University, and the nearby town of Huntington.

Air and Ferry Access

• Long Island MacArthur Airport (ISP): Located in nearby Islip, this is the most convenient airport for domestic commercial travel, servicing much of Suffolk County.
• International Travel: John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and LaGuardia Airport (LGA) in Queens are both accessible via the L.I.E. and LIRR connections, providing global connectivity.
• Ferry Service: For travel to the New England mainland, the Port Jefferson to Bridgeport, CT ferry is located on the eastern border of the town, offering a vital car and passenger route across the Long Island Sound.