Public comment on a proposed mosque on William Floyd Parkway in Shirley will be heard on February 21 at 2 p.m. by the Brookhaven Board of Zoning Appeals. The applicant, Islaamic Center of Mastic-Shirley Inc., is seeking setback, signage, and other variances for the 1.6-acre site at the corner of Tudor Road.
The center is requesting a rear yard variance of 25 feet, which will put the house of worship 35 closer to the adjoining property than allowed by town code. The applicant is also seeking approval for a six-foot high fence in the front of the property, as well as larger-than-permitted signage. They would also like to place the sign closer to the parkway than currently allowed.
Following consideration by the zoning board, the project will go through a site plan approval process with the town planning board, according to town officials. A house of worship on the residentially zoned site does not require a zone change or approval by the town board.
| The new mosque proposed for 510 William Floyd Parkway. Islaamic Center of Mastic-Shirley Inc. |
The proposed 35-foot high, two-story mosque, will be 10,500 square feet and feature domed ceilings with two minarets on either side. Local residents have expressed concern over off-street parking and increased traffic the new church could bring.