Dredging begins in Smithtown

The second phase of dredging in what is known as the “Northeast Branch” in Smithtown has begun.

The dredging along the tributaries of Nissequogue River includes the culvert at Bow Drive, past the footbridge, and north to the south side of the Route 347 culvert, according to a memo released by the town last week.

The second phase will further relieve stagnant water along the tributaries in the area, allowing rainwater to “flow more efficiently,” according to the release.

Under Phase I, from Brilner Drive to Harcourt Avenue, removal of brush and cleaning of culverts, as well as some dredging in the clogged streambeds, helped move water which was bubbling up under the residents’ homes.

According to the town, special drainage structures were installed to prevent sediments from returning to the area.

Groundwater levels have been very high in areas of Smithtown over the past few years due to sporadic heavy rains that keep the level up. About 1,700 homes in the area are experiencing basement flooding, according to the town’s engineering department, in the area of Old Nichols and Mount Pleasant roads and Maple Avenue.

The town asks residents to clean up after animals, and to refrain from throwing litter, grass clippings, leaves or any other brush into storm drains or wetland areas.

Call Smithtown’s public safety at (631) 360-7553 with any complaints of littering.