Farmingdale OKs zoning change for project

The Farmingdale board approved revamping the zoning code to allow for new downtown development, but not before several residents raised last-minute objections.

The village board on Monday night paved the way for multiuse buildings on 60 acres near the Long Island Rail Road station in a bid to revitalize the area with higher-density, transit-oriented development. The unanimous vote follows four years of studies and public hearings.

"We turned over every rock, looked at every scenario possible," said Mayor George Starkie.

Rezoning is the first step in a 139-page downtown master plan, also approved Monday.

About 70 community members packed village hall, with several still questioning whether the apartment and condo space proposed for the area surrounding Conklin and Main streets might invite more crime, traffic and illegal residences.

"We all want to see Main Street bloom and blossom," resident Frank Gatto said. "I think bringing this in, more apartments . . . is going to go back to where we were 10 years ago. It was a lot more dangerous in the community than it is now."

Others said allowing new construction to exceed the village's 36-foot height restrictions with architectural elements created a slippery slope. Resident Nick Ezzo jested that skyscrapers were next.

But Joe Crema and other residents ultimately supported the change.

"We need to make this type of investment in this community in order for it to flourish," Crema said.

"It's for the best," said Joe Carosella, who had voiced concerns about the project. "I just wanted to make sure they looked at everything."