Blighted Cottage Demo Makes Way For 3.5 Acres Of Open Space In Middle Island

MIDDLE ISLAND, NY — The demolition of a blighted house and cottage has cleared the way for the preservation of 3.5 acres of critical open space in Middle Island on a swath of land that lies on the boundary between the Core of the Central Pine Barrens and the Compatible Growth Area, Brookhaven Town officials said Wednesday.

The Town acquired the heavily wooded parcel, which is along East Bartlett Road, to protect it from future development and preserve its natural state, including a quarter-acre pond, old-growth woodlands, and "rolling topography," according to officials.

In recent years, the town installed a wildlife tunnel connecting the subject property to a wetland complex on the east side of the road, which is regularly used by wildlife including amphibians, mammals, and birds to cross the roadway safely and has virtually eliminated most roadkill in this area.

The removal of structures will allow the disturbed areas to return to their natural habitat, while preserving the serene setting for future generations to enjoy.

The property is described as "a natural wildlife sanctuary," that is home to "myriad of species and is vitally important" to migratory frogs including spring peepers, gray tree frogs, and wood frogs which use the pond for breeding in the spring.

Supervisor Dan Panico said the Town Board has proven "a government can be effective at preservation and the protection of our environment."

"This latest accomplishment is in a truly beautiful and serene part of our town, containing substantial preserved open space acreage and pine barrens,” he added.

Councilman Michael Loguercio noted that the town board's mission "is to preserve where it makes sense and redevelop where appropriate."

"We have struck a wonderful balance and continue to achieve for our environment and economy on a daily basis,” he said.

A video of the demolition can be viewed at www.BrookhavenNY.gov or on Brookhaven Cable TV Channel 18.