Cross Island Parkway
The Cross Island Parkway is one of the key north–south parkways in Queens, forming part of New York City’s Belt Parkway system. Running for 10.6 miles along the eastern edge of Queens, it connects the Whitestone and Throgs Neck Bridges in the north with the Southern State Parkway in the south. For Long Island drivers, the Cross Island Parkway is a vital link to bridges leading into the Bronx and New England, as well as a connector to Long Island’s own network of parkways and expressways.
History
- Construction: Built in the late 1930s under the leadership of Robert Moses, as part of the ambitious Belt Parkway system.
- Opening: The parkway officially opened in 1940, coinciding with other parts of the Belt system.
- Purpose: Designed exclusively for passenger vehicles, the Cross Island Parkway was created to provide a scenic and efficient bypass around residential neighborhoods, avoiding heavy commercial traffic.
- Modernization: Over the decades, the parkway has been widened, resurfaced, and integrated into modern traffic systems, including electronic tolling connections at the northern bridges.
Route and Significance
- Northern Terminus: At the Whitestone Expressway (I-678) and Throgs Neck Bridge approach in College Point/Whitestone.
- Southern Terminus: Transitions into the Southern State Parkway at the Queens–Nassau border, near Cambria Heights and Elmont.
- Length: 10.6 miles.
- Restrictions: Like other New York parkways, the Cross Island Parkway is closed to trucks, buses, and commercial vehicles.
The parkway provides critical connections for Long Island motorists heading to:
- Throgs Neck & Whitestone Bridges → Bronx, Westchester, Connecticut, and New England.
- Southern State Parkway → Long Island destinations in Nassau and Suffolk counties.
- Belt Parkway System → Other key roads in Brooklyn and Queens.
Major Exits and Connections
| Exit | Direction | Destination / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 25A | Southbound | Southern State Parkway (continuation of Belt System) |
| 25B | Southbound | Linden Boulevard |
| 26A | Northbound | Belmont Park entrance |
| 26B | Both | Hempstead Avenue (NY 24) – West |
| 26C | Both | Hempstead Avenue (NY 24) – East |
| 26D | Northbound | Secondary Belmont Park entrance |
| 27 | Northbound | Jericho Turnpike (NY 25) / Braddock Avenue |
| 28A | Both | Hillside Avenue (NY 25B) |
| 28B | Both | Union Turnpike |
| 29E / 29W | Both | Grand Central Parkway (East / West) |
| 30E / 30W | Both | Long Island Expressway (I-495) East / West |
| 31E / 31W | Both | Northern Boulevard (NY 25A) East / West |
| 32 | Both | Bell Boulevard |
| 33 | Both | Clearview Expressway (I-295) / Throgs Neck Bridge |
| 34 | Southbound | Utopia Parkway / 160 Street |
| 35 | Southbound | 14 Avenue / Francis Lewis Boulevard |
| 36N / 36S | Both | Whitestone Expressway (I-678) – Northern Terminus |
Notable Facts
- Part of the original Belt Parkway system created by Robert Moses.
- Provides the fastest route for Long Islanders heading north toward New England.
- Scenic stretches pass through parks such as Alley Pond Park and Cunningham Park.
Area Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Opened | 1940 |
| Length | 10.6 miles |
| Northern Terminus | Whitestone/Throgs Neck Bridge approaches (Queens) |
| Southern Terminus | Southern State Parkway (Queens–Nassau border) |
| Restrictions | No trucks or buses |
| Operator | NYSDOT / NYC DOT |
| Primary Role | Connects Long Island parkways to Bronx/NE bridges |
The Cross Island Parkway is a critical link in the Belt Parkway system and one of the most important north–south roadways for Long Island drivers. By connecting directly to the Throgs Neck and Whitestone Bridges, it provides access to the Bronx, New England, and beyond, while linking seamlessly to the Southern State Parkway for travel deeper into Nassau and Suffolk Counties. For commuters, travelers, and visitors, the Cross Island Parkway continues to serve as a vital artery along the eastern edge of Queens.
