On September 24, Supervisor Dan Panico was present to thank the Town of Brookhaven’s demolition crew as they prepared to demolish a blighted house and cottage in Middle Island. This action is part of an effort to preserve 3.5 acres of open space. The Town acquired the parcel along East Bartlett Road to protect it from future development and maintain its natural state. The land is located on the boundary between the Core of the Central Pine Barrens and the Compatible Growth Area, featuring a quarter-acre pond, rolling topography, and old-growth woodlands.
“In Brookhaven we have proven that a government can be effective at preservation and the protection of our environment. This latest accomplishment is in a truly beautiful and serene part of our town, containing substantial preserved open space acreage and pine barrens,” said Brookhaven Town Supervisor Dan Panico.
The parcel serves as a natural wildlife sanctuary, home to various species including migratory frogs such as spring peepers, grey tree frogs, and wood frogs which use the pond for breeding in the spring.
“In Brookhaven, our mission is to preserve where it makes sense and redevelop where appropriate. We have struck a wonderful balance and continue to achieve for our environment and economy on a daily basis,” commented Brookhaven Town Councilman Michael Loguercio.
In recent years, the Town installed a wildlife tunnel connecting this property to a wetland complex on the east side of the road. This tunnel is used by wildlife including amphibians, mammals, and birds to safely cross the roadway, significantly reducing roadkill in this area. The removal of structures will allow disturbed areas to revert to their natural habitat while preserving the setting for future generations.
A video of this demolition and others in the Town of Brookhaven can be viewed at www.BrookhavenNY.gov or on Brookhaven Cable TV Channel 18.