Cedar Island Lighthouse: One Step Closer to Restoration

The Cedar Island Lighthouse in East Hampton is one step closer to being restored and renovated thanks to the unanimous approval by the Suffolk County Legislature of a license agreement at its general meeting on June 17. The license agreement between Cedar Island Lighthouse and the Suffolk County Parks Department will extend the agreement with Lighthouse Inc., a non-profit organization that oversees the lighthouse, to raise donations, and maintain and improve the infrastructure of the lighthouse.

This legislation, sponsored by Legislator Jay Schneiderman, also allows for two rooms of the renovated lighthouse to become a bed and breakfast. All money earned from the bed and breakfast will go towards maintenance costs. A living space for the lighthouse keeper will also be provided under this agreement.

The Cedar Island Lighthouse has been deteriorating and has been inaccessible to the public for roughly 40 years. The new legislation directs the Suffolk County Parks Department to extend the existing license agreement with Lighthouse Inc. through December 31, 2029. Michael Leahy, President of Lighthouse Inc., needed this agreement with the county to improve the non-profit’s ability to raise funds and direct improvements at the Cedar Island Lighthouse.

“This agreement is the best way to protect and preserve this historic structure. I would like to thank Michael Leahy for his willingness to take on this monumental task of raising funds to restore this building to its formal grandeur and to open it to the public,” said Legislator Schneiderman.