Smithtown OKs $7.7M capital plan with funding for park upgrades

Smithtown has approved $7.7 million in borrowing for a capital plan that includes updates to town parks, a senior center and community landmarks.

The capital budget includes nearly $4.8 million for park improvements, along with funding earmarked for other projects: $152,250 to the Sweetbriar Nature Center; about $1.5 million for buildings and facilities; and $223,300 for a mobile data terminal.

In a statement, Supervisor Ed Wehrheim said the projects "support our seniors, revitalize our parks, protect our historic treasures, expand recreation, safeguard our assets, and ensure our municipal buildings continue to serve residents efficiently."

The town had been considering a larger, $10 million plan, but opted to scale it back, Wehrheim said in an interview. 

“We’re looking at everything to save money on,” Wehrheim said. Last fall, the town board approved a 2026 budget that raises the tax levy by 10.7% in 2026. That equates to a roughly $160 average increase in annual tax bills.

The capital plan includes $553,254 in upgrades to the senior center. A renovated auditorium will feature new stage walls, windows, curtains and lights, according to a news release.

The capital plan calls for roughly $275,000 in upgrades to Hoyt Farm Nature Preserve in Commack. Fixes to longstanding drainage and stormwater issues are planned. The town will also install a safer pedestrian walkway near the bocce courts, according to the release.

“We’re going to make the walkway wider and safer for the public and for people with their children,” Joseph Arico, Smithtown’s director of buildings and grounds, said in an interview. 

The Charles P. Toner Park, also known as Armory Park, in Nesconset is also set for renovations. The town is preparing for new pickleball and tennis courts, plus the installation of new lights at the football field. The pickleball and tennis court upgrades follow “growing demand for multi-generational recreation” in the town, Smithtown officials said in the release.

The capital plan includes $700,000 for the first phase of work at Armory Park, and more than $1.5 million for a second.

The work on those courts at the Armory is expected to begin in March, Arrico said.

The capital plan also calls for replacing the kiddie pool at the Smithtown pool complex. The town, according to the release, is planning for a" vibrant modern water park featuring interactive spray elements and expanded water play zones, revitalizing the summer experience for young families."