EPCAL...Mixed Use Proposed

Preliminary studies of the Riverhead owned property known as EPCAL seems to recommend a mixed use of the 2400 acre plus property.  This would include suggestions for industrial, commercial and even some residential but no casinos or racetrack (motorsports).  The original transfer of the huge parcel by the U.S. Navy specified that the property was to be developed for economic benefit to the town.  There have been many false starts, contract withdrawals and forfeits as well.

Recommendations by this blogger for a multiplex cinema, similar to Island 16, an ice hockey arena  for public, league and scholastic use and several retail anchor stores have not generated any interest.

Breaking Ground at Summerwind
County and Town officials did the ceremonial shovel photo op this week signifying the start of the Summerwind project, a 4 story, 52 residential unit structure which will include a 100 seat restaurant and 5700 square feet of retail space.


School Closings a Worry

Repeated stories in the media  about school closings across the Island.  First we heard that  6 Catholic elementary schools could possibly close this coming year.  Then there are reports that two more elementary schools would close in Nassau (one in Bellmore).  Now there is a proposal to close 2 of the 6 elementary schools in West Islip. Is this a question of funding or reduced enrollment?  Possibly both but a trend that bears watching.

County Adds 50 Acres to Purchase

The County legislature has already approved the purchase of the 300 acre  North Fork Preserve for use as a major parkland and now it wants to add another  50 acres to the total parcel.  It has started the ball rolling by ordering an appraisal of the additional land to determine a purchase price.

From The NY State Senate Floor
State Senator Lee Zeldin Votes and Comments on Repeal of the MTA Payroll Tax
Good Job Lee!