The Presiding Officer of the Suffolk Legislature, Anthony Piccirillo, threw the brakes on plans for a convention center and major development at the Ronkonkoma Hub, saying taxpayers should not spend another dollar on a project he believes will never materialize.
The development proposal, tied to the southern half of the hub near the Long Island Rail Road station and MacArthur Airport, had been envisioned as part of a larger regional project that included a convention center, hotel, medical and research space, retail, housing, and airport connectivity.
Supporters argued that the development is a key component of a long-planned effort to create a seamless connection between the airport and the station. The proposal includes relocating airport facilities to the north side of the airport and creating a dedicated pedestrian link that would allow travelers to walk directly from the train station to the terminal.
Advocates say the “train-to-plane” connection would improve regional transportation, boost economic development, and make MacArthur Airport more attractive to travelers, while critics question whether the broader convention center and development plans are realistic or worth the public investment.
Piccirillo made clear during capital budget discussions that he wants the county to move in another direction. About $200 million had been earmarked for the effort, including $150 million in state infrastructure funding and $50 million from the county’s hotel-motel tax.
“I went through this document with the serious intention to make sure that when we say we’re creating a more affordable Suffolk County, that we mean it,” Piccirillo said. “We were able to right-size this budget while prioritizing critical infrastructure and making sure that every department has the ability to build itself out in a responsible way for the taxpayers of this county.”
Piccirillo framed the decision as part of a broader effort to control spending in Suffolk’s 2027-2029 Capital Budget. Following his remarks, the legislature unanimously approved the plan.
Supporters of the Ronkonkoma project say the site remains one of Long Island’s best redevelopment opportunities. The proposal has been backed by Governor Kathy Hochul, Islip Town Supervisor Angie Carpenter, and others who view the property as a key link between MacArthur Airport and the Ronkonkoma rail station.
However, with Piccirillo and several lawmakers questioning the viability of the project and seeking to redirect funding to roads, bridges, sewers and other infrastructure, the future of a convention center and large-scale development on the property is increasingly uncertain.