Smithtown: Housing Proposed in Downtown Kings Park as Diner Closes

"Developers have filed plans to build a three-story mixed-use apartment complex in Kings Park on the site of a former restaurant — a move Smithtown officials say is key to revitalizing the hamlet. Developers have pitched Cornerstone Kings Park on a 2.26-acre lot on the corner of Meadow Road and Indian Head Road. The developers for the $22 million complex, with 50 luxury apartments, are Tanzi Properties LLC, which owns the land, and Terwilliger & Bartone Properties."

"The proposal will revitalize downtown Kings Park, Smithtown Supervisor Ed Wehrheim (R) and the developers said. In 2016, the town released an 'action plan' for the hamlet that called for transit-oriented development in and around Kings Park’s LIRR train station. Developers sought the community's input on the project and have held hearings over the past several months. Wehrheim and developer Anthony Bartone said they expect opposition from residents. But ultimately, Wehrheim said that the town should support transit-oriented housing. 'I understand that people have their opinions on whether these kinds of projects are feasible but . . . if we don’t embark on changes, what will remain is derelict downtown business districts with empty storefronts, and I don’t think that’s what Smithtown wants.'"

"Suffolk Legis. Rob Trotta (R-Fort Salonga, Kings Park) said he opposed putting 50 apartments on a property of that size. 'People move to Long Island to get away from that kind of density,' Trotta said in an interview." But news came the same week that the long-time Professor's Diner at this same intersection is closing in part due to " a declining customer base" and less activity downtown.