The sprawling hamlet of Franklin Square is a close-knit community where many residents remain for generations.

"Few people move out after they move in," said John Savoretti, owner-broker of John Savoretti Realty who grew up in Franklin Square. "It's quiet, close to the city and very family-oriented."

"It's a great place to raise kids," echoes Kathleen Evangelista, a seven-year resident and sales agent with Prudential Douglas Elliman Real Estate, citing programs such as Little League sports as well as annual events that cater to the entire family. The Franklin Square Senior Center offers programs and organizes trips.

While Franklin Square lacks a downtown district, an abundance of shops, services and eateries dominate Franklin Avenue and Hempstead Turnpike. The area is touted for its Italian restaurants and delis. Professional offices also can be found.

The hamlet is largely middle class with tidy neighborhoods where capes, ranches - many of them brick-faced - and Colonials sit on compact lots. A smattering of contemporaries, Tudors and two-family homes can also be found.

"People are renovating and putting a lot of money into their homes," Evangelista said. With virtually no land left to build on, it's not odd for a builder to buy an original ranch for $400,000 and knock it down to build a Colonial and then sell it for $700,000 to $800,000, she said.

Rath Park features an outdoor pool, athletic fields and courts, play equipment, picnic tables and a playground.

Annual events include street fairs, festivals and parades hosted by various organizations. Summertime block parties also are popular here.

-Lisa Doll Bruno(2/25/2005)