Construction Of Smithtown Welcome Center Begins

SMITHTOWN, NY — Construction has begun on the new Smithtown Welcome Center at Paul T. Given Park, located across from the iconic bull monument, the Town of Smithtown announced.

The project, which was formerly the Oasis Gentlemen’s Club, aims to enhance Paul T. Given Park, creating a green space that will serve as an inviting gateway to Smithtown while promoting eco-tourism and community engagement.

The town did not state when the project is expected to be complete by.

"Creating a unique green space at the entryway to Smithtown has been a long-time vision of the Smithtown Administration," Supervisor Edward Wehrheim said in a news release. "We acquired the property in a park swap with Suffolk County and after finally receiving the necessary approvals from the State DEC, we are thrilled to be beginning construction on the Welcome Center. This project will not only restore the historic charm of the area but also help to rebuild the local ecosystem… all while providing a serene refuge for residents and wildlife."

The building renovations, upon completion, will feature a welcome center on the first floor, providing essential amenities for park visitors, including restrooms, bait shop, food concession, and an office for the local canoe/kayak rental business.

The main floor will also feature educational nature exhibits for visitors of all ages, alongside a dedicated area to showcase local tourism. Here, organizations such as the Chamber of Commerce and other community groups can display marketing materials and informational pamphlets to highlight the rich cultural, historic and natural attractions, and special events available in the Township.

The second floor of the new facility will house a multipurpose meeting room, designed to accommodate classes, workshops, and conduct other town business. This space will cater to the needs of the local community while fostering educational and civic engagement opportunities.

In addition to the Welcome Center, plans for Paul T. Given Park include a series of upgrades and eco-friendly initiatives aimed at enhancing both the visitor experience and the park’s natural environment.

Paul T. Given Park Renovations will include:

• Minor renovations and repairs to existing infrastructure.
• Removal of invasive Japanese knotweed to support native biodiversity.
• Installation of bioswales to mitigate stormwater runoff and protect the Nissequogue Headwaters.
• New landscaping and street trees along Main Street (NY 25A) to beautify the area.
• Development of new trails for hiking and wildlife education/awareness tours.
• Improved fishing access.
• Construction of a canoe launch, ADA-accessible pavilion with restrooms, and a raised deck/viewing platform for scenic enjoyment.
• Creation of a picnic area, playground, and enhanced open spaces for community use.
• Repairs to the historic steel bridge within the park.

The project has been made possible through a series of strategic decisions, the town stated, including the purchase of the former Oasis Gentlemen’s Club property in May 2021. This acquisition was designed to expand Paul T. Given Park and protect environmentally sensitive areas along the Nissequogue River Headwaters. The Town Board approved a park swap with Suffolk County, authorizing special legislation to alienate Bill Richards Park in exchange for Paul T. Given Park.

Working closely with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, the Town of Smithtown stated it is committed to "realizing this vision of a natural sanctuary."

"Upon its culmination, the new Welcome Center and enhanced Paul T. Given Park will stand as a testament to Smithtown’s dedication to environmental stewardship, community well-being, and sustainable development," the town wrote.