Yesterday, the Suffolk County Legislature unanimously approved a resolution co-sponsored by Legislator Jon Cooper (D-Huntington) that will allocate $500,000 in funding to revitalize downtown business districts across Suffolk County. A large portion of the funds ($136, 475) will be used for revitalization projects in Cold Spring Harbor, Huntington Village, Huntington Station and East Northport.
The Suffolk County Downtown Citizens Advisory Panel solicited applications requesting funding through Phase VI of the Suffolk County Downtown Revitalization. The panel evaluated the applications and ranked the submitted projects according to a merit-based scoring system which includes points for Leveraging; Smart Growth Compatibility; Economic, Beautification, Visitor and Business Impact; Environmental Compatibility; and as an Integral Part of an Overall Downtown Revitalization Plan. The Advisory Panel determined that all of the approved projects would have an important and sustainable impact on downtowns and business districts.
"I am happy to announce the approval of this important funding to improve the various downtown areas within the Town of Huntington," stated Legislator Cooper. " These community enhancements will benefit everyone by creating a nicer place to shop for both visitors and our local residents."
The Cold Spring Harbor Main Street Association submitted an application to improve the lighting in the area with historical-style streetlights for the community's municipal parking field and Main Street area. The additional funding will not only enhance the "streetscape" of Cold Spring Harbor but will also provide a safe passage for pedestrians traversing the walkways and parking lots at night.
Funding for the Huntington Village Business Improvement District will be used to improve the walkways of four alleys in Huntington Village. This will make these areas more accessible for pedestrians by providing greater access to parking areas and will make walking to local shops and businesses much easier. The repaving of these alleyways with brick will provide a significant beautification project for all areas of the village and will coordinate with the other brick sidewalks and crosswalks already placed around town.
The East Northport Chamber of Commerce's project will provide improvements to the area of Larkfield Road between 5th Avenue and Clay Pitts Road. Fifty new lampposts will be installed along this section as well as new improvements to the sidewalks.
The application of the Town of Huntington's Economic Development Corporation (EDC) calls for the improvement of the area located at the intersection of New York Avenue and Olive Street, the home of the future Huntington Station Plaza. A pedestrian-friendly public plaza will create a focal point for community pride and activities by incorporating a unique, community-oriented, public art project reflecting the spirit and diversity of the community.
"The Town of Huntington Economic Development Corporation is grateful for Suffolk County's Downtown Revitalization Round 6 award," stated Rob Ripp, Chairman of the EDC. "The Town of Huntington and the EDC are working cooperatively on numerous initiatives to redevelop and revitalize Huntington Station's downtown. These grant dollars will fund the public art component planned as part of our future pedestrian plaza. We sincerely thank Legislator Jon Cooper, the Suffolk Legislature and County Executive Levy for their gesture of support and encouragement of our economic development endeavors."
