Brookhaven planning board hearing about ice skating rink

The Town of Brookhaven has scheduled a Planning Board public hearing to discuss a proposed ice skating rink in Shirley, New York.

 

The hearing is set for Thursday, March 26, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. in the Second Floor Auditorium at 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville.

 

Residents and stakeholders are encouraged to attend and share their views on the project.

 

The proposed development, spearheaded by Hampshire Venture Partners, LLC, aims to transform the former Dowling College aviation campus into a modern recreational facility.

 

Plans include constructing a two-sheet ice hockey rink complex at the southeast corner of William Floyd Parkway and Flower Hill Drive.

 

The facility is expected to feature locker rooms, bleacher seating, concessions, and associated parking areas.

 

Additionally, the project encompasses the development of nearly 600,000 square feet of warehouse space across three buildings on approximately 60 acres of the site.

 

The remaining 45 acres are slated to be dedicated to the town, including existing athletic fields and the new recreation center.

 

Brookhaven Town Supervisor Dan Panico has indicated that the town will assume ownership of the property and its athletic fields, which require significant repairs and upgrades.

 

The town plans to refurbish these fields and manage the ice rink facility as a public park, potentially contracting a separate company for park management.

 

Community members have expressed both enthusiasm and concern regarding the project.

 

While many welcome the addition of a local ice skating rink, some have raised questions about potential traffic impacts and the facility's proximity to residential areas.

 

The upcoming public hearing will provide a platform for these discussions, allowing the Planning Board to consider public input before making decisions on site plan approvals and necessary variances.

 

For those unable to attend in person, the hearing will be streamed live on the town's official website.

 

Residents are encouraged to participate, ensuring their voices are heard in shaping the future of this significant local development.