The primary entrance to Queens - a tangled traffic web for years - will be transformed into a smooth-flowing transportation hub, the city announced August 3.

Deputy Mayor for Economic Development Robert Lieber appeared at Queens Plaza in Long Island City alongside elected officials to unveil the $76.4 million infrastructure project, part of which is already underway.

Under phase one of the plan, the city will proceed with its proposed Queens Plaza Streetscape Improvement Project, which will extend from Queens Plaza North to Queens Plaza South, and from Northern Boulevard/Queens Plaza East to 21st Street.

The streetscape project will improve medians, landscaping, sidewalks, curbs and create protected bike and pedestrian pathways.

Phase two will continue the project from Queens Plaza East to the East River at Vernon Boulevard. The streetscape joins an earlier Jackson Avenue streetscape project which was started last year.

“We’re taking steps today that not only create jobs, but also go further to transform Long Island City’s business district and attract continued private investment in the long term,” said Lieber. “Making investments in infrastructure and streetscape today in order to set the stage for growth is a critical component of our Five Borough Economic Opportunity Plan.”

The plan is a city effort to recover from the economic crisis that focuses on building jobs, the economy and affordable neighborhoods across the city.

The Long Island City project has been financed with $33 million in federal stimulus monies, $19.7 million in other federal funding secured by Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney, and $23.7 million in city funds.

Slated for completion in 2011, the city estimates the project will generate 1,700 construction-related jobs.

“The improvements planned for Queens Plaza will replace traffic snarls, frightening crossing areas, and a forbidding landscape with green spaces, improved traffic conditions, and a more pedestrian-friendly environment,” Maloney said. “I am proud to be teaming up with Mayor Bloomberg, Deputy Mayor Lieber, and the Long Island City Business Improvement District to turn Queens Plaza into a welcoming gateway to the flourishing residential and business district.”

Queens Borough President Helen Marshall said the plan would revitalize what for many is the entranceway to Queens.

“Queens Plaza is the front door to the borough of Queens,” Marshall said. “That’s why today’s announcement of infrastructure improvements, new lighting and landscaping is especially important.