 On April 30, 1949, the sides came to agreement to name the new highway for the war veterans, and two agencies were hired to come up with a name.The design for the freeway between Commack and Holbrook included a right-of-way, and the road was constructed under the supervision of the New York State Department of Public Works.Construction continued throughout 1949, with the new Veterans Memorial Highway opening on January 25, 1950.