The Town of Brookhaven is launching a long-awaited update to its Comprehensive Land Use Plan, inviting residents to help shape the future of their communities through a series of public meetings this spring.
“It’s time to update Brookhaven’s Comprehensive Plan from 1996,” said Town Supervisor Dan Panico, pointing to nearly three decades of growth and change since the current plan was adopted.
The initiative will bring together numerous studies conducted over the years into one coordinated framework to guide decision-making on land use, housing, transportation, sustainability and economic development. Officials say the effort is designed to reflect both town-wide priorities and the unique needs of Brookhaven’s six council districts.
Each open house workshop will be informal and interactive, allowing residents, business owners and stakeholders to drop in, review materials, speak with project team members and share feedback. No formal presentation will be given.
Town leaders stress that public participation is essential. For everyday residents, the comprehensive plan will directly influence issues such as housing affordability, traffic patterns, job opportunities, environmental protection and access to parks and services—factors that shape daily life across the town.
“This is about making sure Brookhaven grows in a way that reflects what our residents want and need—not just today, but for the next generation,” Panico said.
A comprehensive plan serves as a roadmap for growth, helping local government make coordinated, long-term decisions rather than reacting to development case by case. Without it, officials say, growth can become fragmented, placing strain on infrastructure and diminishing quality of life.
Residents who cannot attend in person can still participate through a community survey and interactive map at planbrookhaven.com.
Open House Schedule (all sessions 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.):
April 22 (Wednesday) – Council District 3
Middle Country Public Library, 575 Middle Country Rd, Selden
April 23 (Thursday) – Council District 2
Rose Caracappa Senior Center, 739 NY-25A, Mt. Sinai
April 27 (Monday) – Council District 6
Moriches Bay Recreation Facility, 313 Frowein Rd, Center Moriches
April 28 (Tuesday) – Council District 4
Town Hall Auditorium, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville
May 12 (Tuesday) – Council District 5
Bayport-Blue Point Public Library, 186 Middle Rd, Blue Point
May 13 (Wednesday) – Council District 1
New Village Recreation Center, 20 Wireless Rd, Centereach