The MTA is taking the first step toward eliminating three of Long Island’s busiest Long Island Rail Road grade crossings after receiving nearly $7.5 million in federal funding for planning and design.

The funding will support preliminary work to replace grade crossings at Lowell Avenue in Central Islip, Straight Path in Wyandanch and Fifth Avenue in Brentwood with bridges or underpasses.

According to the MTA, the three crossings are used by a combined 63,000 vehicles each day. Officials say increased LIRR service has led to more frequent gate closures, contributing to traffic congestion. Train service has increased by 66% in Brentwood, 60% in Wyandanch and 66% in Central Islip, resulting in longer delays for drivers.

The MTA says eliminating the crossings is intended to improve traffic flow, enhance safety and reduce congestion for motorists and surrounding communities.

Central Islip resident Ethan Raphael said replacing the crossings would make a noticeable difference for drivers.

“It would be more free flowing," Raphael said. "It would be better. It would be better for primetime or midtime traffic. It would be really good. It would clear it up a lot."

While construction is not expected to begin in the immediate future, MTA officials say the federal grant marks the first step in advancing the long-term project.