Senator Martins’ Legislation to Create “Billy Joel Boulevard” in Hicksville Approved by Transportation Committee

     Senator Jack M. Martins (R-7^th Senate District) announced that legislation he sponsored to create “Billy Joel Boulevard” in Hicksville has been approved by the Senate’s Transportation Committee.  The legislation (S6603) would rename Route 107 between Old Country Road and East John Street in downtown Hicksville, which is Billy Joel’s hometown, “Billy Joel Boulevard.”  Senator Martins is sponsoring the legislation with Assemblyman Michael Montesano (R-15^th Assembly District). 

     “Billy Joel is an iconic, world renowned musician who never forgot the place he called home; Long Island.  He’s promoted Long Island through his songs, but more importantly, he’s helped his fellow Long Islanders through his deeds.  Creating ‘Billy Joel Boulevard’ in his hometown of Hicksville is a much deserved tribute to a man who has done so much for Long Island and Long Islanders,” said Senator Martins. 

     Billy Joel is one of music’s most popular entertainers. He has sold more than 150 million records, is a six-time Grammy award winner, is a member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and is a recipient of the Kennedy Center Honor, one of the top American cultural awards.  Earlier this year, he became the first ever music franchise at Madison Square Garden, in which he will perform one show a month at “the world’s most famous arena.”      

     Though he is a world-renowned musician, he has never forgotten his Long Island roots and still maintains a home in the Town of Oyster Bay.  He performed as part of the “12.12.12 Concert for Sandy Relief” to help raise awareness and funds for the victims of Hurricane Sandy.  He also recently held a surprise concert to benefit Long Island Cares: the Harry Chapin Food Bank, which provides food and services to Long Islanders in need.