About 400 residents turned out to hear the latest about the Beechwood effort to rebuild the Neighborhood Road Business District in Mastic Beach. Here’s what they had to say about the revitalization project.
“Any new growth within reason is a good thing. You see what happened in Patchogue and Westhampton Beach when they revitalized their downtowns, and I’m a little jealous. If there is an option for our younger generations at a reasonable price to keep them here, it’s very encouraging.”—Donna McGarrigle, Mastic Beach
“I think it’s a great project. I look forward to seeing it get done. It will improve the area. It can’t get any worse.”—Mike Lovell, Mastic Beach
“It will bring so much good to the area. We will be able to walk down Main Street, go to nice restaurants, watch the games without having to leave the community. It’s the last area on the South Shore to be revitalized.”—John Debatto, Smith Point
“This is a great idea. It’s difficult when you drive to church and see vagrants and people sleeping on the street. I hope this will change that. It will be nice to see a village like Patchogue.”—Kevin Hynes, Shirley
“I was a naysayer; l came in not wanting it. They changed my point of view with their presentation. They made a good case, and it sounds exciting. It's a beach vibe; it will change the area.”—Liz Deery, Smith Point
“We’ve been promised a lot over the last 35 years and got nothing. They’re finally putting the money down and getting it done. Supervisor Panico is from here; he will take care of his hometown. He’s heard all the promises, and now he’s talking hold of it.—Daniel Els, Mastic Beach