Veterans Memorial Highway (NY-454)
New York State Route 454 (NY-454), known locally as Veterans Memorial Highway, is a 10-mile state highway in Suffolk County running from Commack to Holbrook. It serves as a major east–west corridor through central Long Island, providing access to Islip MacArthur Airport, government offices, shopping centers, and major north–south highways.
Unlike Long Island’s parkways, Veterans Memorial Highway is a multi-lane divided arterial open to all vehicles, including trucks. It is one of Suffolk’s busiest commuter roads and also an important connector for travelers heading to and from the airport.
Route and Features
- Western Terminus: NY-25 (Jericho Turnpike), Commack
- Eastern Terminus: NY-27 (Sunrise Highway), Holbrook
- Length: ~10 miles
- County: Suffolk
- Character: Multi-lane divided arterial highway
- Restrictions: None (commercial traffic permitted)
Major Intersections & Access Points (west → east)
| Intersection | Destination / Notes |
|---|---|
| NY-25 (Jericho Turnpike) | Commack — western terminus |
| Sunken Meadow Pkwy / Sagtikos Pkwy | Links north to Sunken Meadow / south to Southern State |
| NY-347 (Nesconset Hwy) | Smithtown / Hauppauge corridor |
| County Center (Veterans Hwy area) | Suffolk County government buildings & courts |
| I-495 (Long Island Expressway) | Hauppauge / Islandia interchange |
| Islip MacArthur Airport | Main airport access |
| NY-454 / NY-73 concurrency areas | Connects to Johnson Ave |
| NY-27 (Sunrise Highway) | Holbrook — eastern terminus |
Notable Facts
- Constructed in the mid-20th century to serve the rapid suburban expansion of Suffolk County.
- Named “Veterans Memorial Highway” to honor U.S. military service members.
- Provides the primary access route to Islip MacArthur Airport (ISP).
- A central hub for Suffolk County government, with offices and courts located along the roadway in Hauppauge.
- Serves as an alternative east–west route parallel to the LIE (I-495) and Sunrise Highway (NY-27).
