Brookhaven's $62.2 million capital projects budget approved

The Brookhaven Town Board has approved a $62.2 million capital projects budget for 2016 that includes funding for road and park improvements and open space purchases.

About half of the capital budget will go toward expansion and other projects at the town landfill in Brookhaven hamlet.

The landfill is expected to reach capacity and close in about 12 years.

Overall capital spending next year is $1.5 million less than this year, town officials said.

The budget includes funding for new projects, such as development of the Selden Athletic Complex and a new dock at Cherry Grove.

The budget also includes:

$23.3 million for road improvements, traffic safety and other road-related projects

$7.3 million for park improvements and equipment

$6.8 million for open space purchases and preservation

$1.6 million for special district improvements

In a statement, Supervisor Edward P. Romaine said the capital budget "continues my commitment to select and fund only the most critical public improvement projects that will ensure public safety, provide for constituent services, minimize future costs and enhance revenue growth."