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The post-event press release and the full journal from this year's Smart Growth Awards are now available online. Our short video on peak oil is also now up on YouTube for your enjoyment. Thanks to all of our sponsors and supports and congratulations again to our honorees!
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Vision Long Island Honored at APA Gala, Held June 16
Other individuals and organizations were recognized for their leadership in housing and equal opportunity, outstanding achievements, creativity, academic accomplishments, and journalism on land use issues, including a pier revitalization project in West Harlem and affordable and sustainable housing throughout the boroughs. Vision Long Island is honored to have recieved this award and extends its congratulations to the other recipients. For more information on the event, visit the APA New York Metro Chapter website. CNN Reports on Changing Suburban Trends
Amongst the younger generation, this new dream is called "walkable urbanism" -- both small communities and big cities characterized by efficient mass transit systems and high density, compact, walkable development. These characteristics are found in New Urbanism, Smart Growth, and in existing downtowns and cities throughout the country. The next generation is flocking to the cities and fleeing traditional suburbia, the mirror image of the 1950s. Other groups, like aging baby boomer and increasingly childless families also desire this lifestyle, rather than what Leinberger calls "drivable suburbanism" -- a low-density built environment plan that emerged around the end of the World War II and has been the dominant design in the U.S. ever since.” What emerges is that Long Island’s situation (brain drain, deteriorating downtowns, frustrated drivers, etc.) is merely a microcosm of larger national trends. Perhaps due to our small size we’ve seen this trend so early and intensely, but it also means we have the opportunity to stem the tide and make the necessary changes. Sewers In the Works for Mastic-Shirley
The feasibility of the plan must be studied first. The Legislature has already authorized the Department of Public Works to determine the cost and scale of the project and determine the needed infrastructure. The local community will also be involved in the project. Says Levy, “It is important that the people of this area know how big this plant would have to be and that they agree to its location, as well as knowing how much money the users in the new district would have to pay for the sewer fees.” Mark Smothergill, president of the Mastic-Shirley Chamber of Commerce, points out that the pollution in the area necessitates that the plan gets fully implemented. Noting the pollution of the Forge River from cesspools, he states “the bottom line is we need this—we need a sewer district. The community needs this.” The Duck Project Design Charrette
The event brought together members of the community and professionals in the field to study, analyze, and draft a plan of low-impact use for the ecologically vulnerable environment at Hubbard Park. The park is located on the historic homestead and hunting estate formerly known as Black Duck Lodge, combining the sensitive issues of open space and historical preservation.
Dump the Pump
Gerry Bringmann, Chairman of the Long Island Rail Road Commuters Council said, “If you do the math, you'll dump the pump.... Over the last several years, there have been major improvements made on the LIRR, especially with the rolling stock (new M-7 cars & a completely new diesel/coach fleet). With gas now well over $4.00 a gallon, public transportation is definitely the most economical way to go."
Commuters certainly complain of overcrowded cars and inconsistent service, but overall, Long Islanders increasingly favor mass transit. MTA CEO Elliot Sander says LIRR ridership is up by double digits since gas went over the $3 mark. Hopefully, with continued improvements to the Long Island Rail Road and Long Island Bus, more people will view mass transit as equally convenient as the car. News 12 Long Island provided additional coverage yesterday, highlighting Mack's quote and the impacts of Dump the Pump Day. For more information, see the MTA's press release. “Revitalize Our Downtowns-Especially With These Gas Prices” Newsday’s Smart Growth Letters to the Editor
Richard Schloss of East Northport pointed to the high cost of gasoline as a reason for walkable communities, while Lori Devlin of Patchogue felt that reinvesting in our downtowns was the answer to many regional problems like affordable housing, rising transportation costs, and blighted downtowns. Marilyn Yasus of Westbury wrote that, “in time, walkable communities near shopping and transit will appeal to Long Island’s middle class and the “missing class” who have slipped off the radar.” According to these contributors, much credit is due to County Executive Levy and other elected officials who are trying to encourage support and investment from the public and private sectors. In other words, we are opening our eyes to the benefits of downtown revitalization, while closely watching the bigger picture of regional security. NYS DOT Announces Releases State Rail Plan and Plan For Memorial Bike Path Extention
There will be 2 public workshops to discuss the working draft plan. The next one is on June 24, 2008 from 1:00pm-5:00pm at the Binghamton State Office Building, 18th Floor Conference Room, 44 Hawley Street, Binghamton, NY 13901. Another workshop will follow on July 10, 2008 from 1:00pm-5:00pm in at the New York Metropolitan Transportation Council, located at 199 Water Street, 22nd Floor, New York, NY 10038. If you wish to attend either of these workshops, please RSVP to Jay Higle at JHIGLE@dot.state.ny.us. If you wish to provide your thoughts on the draft plan, you can send comments to StateRailPlan@dot.state.ny.us, or drop off written comments at the workshops.
The aim of the project is to improve the existing bike and foot paths by removing and/or replacing the deteriorated paths and extending it north with an attractive, newly surfaced, and widened shared-use one. It is intended to safely accommodate pedestrians and bicyclists of all ages and abilities, serving as a non-motorized transportation route and as a recreational use alternative for the local community. The community’s participation and input is greatly encouraged in order to ensure that the project proceeds with respect to the desires of those who will be affected. The NYSDOT is specifically looking for suggestions that reflect the community’s interests. This dialogue will continue as the project advances toward construction. For additional information or to provide your input, you are encouraged to contact Phyllis Elgut from the Regional Landscape Architecture & Environmental Services Group at (631) 952-2057. |
A recent CNN article by Lara Farrar highlighted a growing trend in the nation that is drastically changing the suburban landscape. Hundreds of homes have been foreclosed upon and hordes of residents forced out of their neighborhoods, leaving behind vacant houses and wild lawns. According to Christopher Leinberger, an urban planning professor at the University of Michigan and visiting fellow at the 
According to C.A. Corry’s article, “Sewers for Suffolk,” in Canvas magazine, the past 30 years have seen little development in bringing sewers to Suffolk County. However, the article states that there is hope. Late last April, Suffolk County Executive Steve Levy and Legislator Kate Browning announced that they were exploring the possibility of adding a sewer system to the Mastic business area, similar to those in Babylon and Islip. The latter sewer projects, though seemingly wasteful at first, are now considered a huge success, serving the largest concentration of business developments in Suffolk County as well as greatly helping the environment. Levy and Browning want to see their plan implemented while the Montauk Highway area is redeveloped in 2009, with hopes that the sewer can also be connected to a proposed treatment plant along William Floyd Parkway.
This past weekend, the American Institute of Architects Peconic Chapter facilitated and sponsored “The Duck Project,” a community design charrette for the 500-acre Hubbard County Park in the Town of Southampton. 
Through addressing various planning, ecological and historical preservation issues in the Duck Project, Suffolk County elected officials and community leaders hoped to create a model of sustainability for all of Suffolk County’s parks. Vision’s Executive Director, Eric Alexander, participated in the charrette with a variety of colleagues, including David Berg of Cameron Engineering, APA Long Island Chapter, and Vision's Board of Directors.
On Thursday, June 12th, the MTA celebrated its third annual Dump the Pump Day, urging Long Islanders to choose the trains and buses as a more economical and energy efficient way to commute. 
Sponsored by the American Public Transportation Association (APTA) in response to rising gas prices, Dump the Pump Day kicked off at the Rockville Centre train station. MTA officials were joined by Mary W. Bossart, Mayor of the Village of Rockville Centre, and William Henderson, Executive Director of the Permanent Citizens Advisory Committee to the MTA. Henderson said: "There are a lot of good reasons to dump the pump. Save yourself some money, save the planet by reducing greenhouse gases and other pollutants, save the wear and tear on your vehicle, or save yourself the aggravation of driving. Whatever your reason, you'll find that public transportation is the smart way to go. See what you've been missing; give transit a try."
While many commuters embrace mass transit, there are still some that feel similarly to the MTA Vice Chairman, David Mack, who was quote by Newsday as saying “Why should I ride and inconvenience myself when I can ride in a car?” If we are looking to change the driving habits of Long Islanders, we must have the support of the MTA's movers and shakers.
Several recent letters to the editor in Newsday strongly supported the revitalization of Long Island’s downtown districts. The contributors came from East Northport, Westbury, and Patchogue, which is indicative of a growing understanding of Smart Growth principles throughout Long Island. 
Additionally, the NYSDOT is entering the design phase of its proposed shared-use path project to extend the Ellen Farrant Memorial Bike Path north along the Wantagh State Parkway in the Towns of Hempstead, North Hempstead, and Oyster Bay. |
Tell Your SenatorS To Support the Smart Growth Public InFrastructure Act
Please contact your State Senator with this message: Dear Senator: UNI Bill S.4369 (Lavalle)/ A7335 (Hoyt), The Smart Growth Public Infrastructure Act, has passed the State Assembly and is now in the Senate Environmental Conservation Committee. This bill will take a good first step in conserving taxpayer dollars and reinforcing State resources and infrastructure. The Smart Growth Public Infrastructure Act would require that:
Passing this bill before the end of this session could not be more important. Smart Growth works to help rein in out-of-control costs. It protects the environment. By prioritizing maintenance of current roads, rails, and other infrastructure, it helps moderate the costs of quickly-rising gasoline prices and reduce congestion. New York is behind the curve on this issue - and success stories related to state Smart Growth efforts in Maryland, Massachusetts, and New Jersey have shown that realigning priorities helps areas that are stagnant to re-grow. In an era of fiscal constraint and environmental strain, these goals could not be more important. Statewide Organizations: Regional Endorsers: Buffalo Calls for Passage of the Smart Growth Public Infrastructure Act
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As our legislators in Albany prepare for the summer recess, it is crucial that we join together to push for the passage of The Smart Growth Public Infrastructure Bill before the end of session. 
Throughout New York State, support is gathering for the Smart Growth Public Infrastructure Policy Act. While we’ve been clamoring for it on Long Island, upstate New York has also joined the battle. In Buffalo’s Artvoice magazine, writer Bruce Fisher connected the sprawling development and infrastructure with the problems facing aging residents in his article, “Seniors Stranded in Cul-De-Sacs.” He pointed to the devastating results of a storm in October 2006 that left thousands without power or aid. According to the article, “the emergency revealed the hidden consequences of 50 years of sprawl;” vulnerable senior citizens were stranded in suburbia without access to basic services.
While gas prices may deter sprawl, Mr. Fisher writes that the real solution will come from the New York State Senate. The State Public Infrastructure Policy Act, sponsored by Democratic Assemblyman Sam Hoyt, aims to stop the “endless increases in funds for new roads, sewers and other infrastructure in ''ever-spreading suburbs for a static population.'' The bill passed the Assembly last year but was defeated in the Senate; the Assembly approved the bill again this year, and, with endorsement from Democratic Governor David Patterson, it awaits a Senate decision this month.
Neighborhood Network Gala To Be Held on June 26th in Oakdale at 6pm
Neighborhood Network invites you to attend Gala 2008 and help celebrate these and many other accomplishments. With your support, you will help ensure that the Neighborhood Network continues to be here every day to promote environmental awareness and develop innovative, proactive strategies to protect Long Island. Doug Farr of the CNU Presents on Sustainable Urbanism On July 2nd
Doug Farr is a Board member of the Congress for the New Urbanism and the Chair of the US Green Building Council's LEED Neighborhood Development task force. His book, 'Sustainable Urbanism: Urban Design with Nature,' is an urgent call to action and a comprehensive introduction to "sustainable urbanism"--the emerging and growing design reform movement that combines the creation and enhancement of walkable and diverse places with the need to build high-performance infrastructure and buildings. Of all the recent writings on green architecture and urbanism, Sustainable Urbanism is the most complete primer on all aspects of how to make walkable, sustainable communities. Please join us for his only talk in New York, sponsored by CNU-New York Chapter, the Municipal Art Society's Urban Center Books, and John Wiley and Sons, Inc., publishers. For more information or to RSVP, please call Eric Alexander at 631-261-0242 or email ea@visionlongisland.org. Oyster Bay Chamber of Commerce Cruise Night On Thursday, July 3rd, come and hear Vision Long Island’s Bert Donley perform at the Oyster Bay Chamber of Commerce Cruise Night. One of VISION’s Board members, little did we know that Bert is a guitar officianado! He’ll be playing and hosting from 6:00 – 10:00 pm at 124 South Street in Oyster Bay. No cover, no minimum, but tips will be donated to the INN (Interfaith Nutrition Network). Bring your own wine. For further information: 516-922-7002 |
This year’s gala honors Edward Thompson for his 15 years as Chair of the Neighborhood Network Board. The gala will also be a celebration of 2008’s successful programs, mounting press recognition, and other achievements. This includes the flourishing Energy Star Home Campaign, which resulted in more than half of the 13 Long Island towns adopting higher energy efficient standards for new home construction. This initiative grew out of the work with municipalities that have been participating in their Clean Energy Leadership Task Force, a project that works with local governments to help them lead by example- by renovating government facilities and fleets with clean energy improvements. Other achievements include public education campaigns that teach thousands of Long Islanders about the environmentally responsible choices that they can make at home, such as professionals that offer organic services and environmentally friendly household products. 
The New York Chapter of the Congress for the New Urbanism invites you to a presentation of “Sustainable Urbanism” by Doug Farr on Wednesday, July 2nd at 6pm. The event will be held at the Municipal Art Society & Urban Center at 457 Madison Avenue at 51st St. in New York City. 
Job Opening at New Canaan Nature Center in CT
The position requires a creative leader who is passionate about the organization’s vision and mission. The successful candidate will embrace the Nature Center’s distinct nature-based early childhood and education foundation, and believe firmly in its aspiration to become a community leader in the area of sustainability.
To apply, please submit, in confidence, a letter expressing your interest, a statement explaining your qualifications as they relate to the above stated job competencies and skills (no more than three pages), and a current resume to Ben Hren, Executive Director, at bhren@newcanaannature.org (use Microsoft Word formatting). Please visit our website at www.newcanaannature.org. LIPC Seeking Affordable Housing Organizer
The Community Organizer’s primary responsibilities include identifying and building relationships with local leaders, working with the faith-based community, and developing local activists and leaders. The position will also entail organizing and strategizing for campaigns, actions, mobilizations, media coverage, and other activities. Prior experience in community organizing, as a volunteer or employed, is necessary. The position also calls for creative approaches to problem-solving, including analytic, strategic, and planning skills. It requires the ability to travel, including having a reliable car, to work evenings and weekends, and effective public speaking skills. Please send a resume, cover letter and a writing sample to: Erin Curtin, LIPC, 90 Pennsylvania Ave, Massapequa, NY 11758 or fax your materials to: 516-541-2113 or email erin@lipc.org. Services Available: Help Around the House Once a Vision Board Member, Carol Eckert is now a pioneering “handygal” offering her skills and services in home improvement to the greater Huntington Area, Fort Salonga, and Kings Park. “Help around the House” is a cross between “Take Home Handyman” and “Toolbelt Diva.” She offers help completing to-do lists, gardening, redecorating, organizing, home vacation watch, and any other little jobs that you may need help with around the house. For more information on this entrepreneur and her business, check out her website. |
The New Canaan Nature center (NCNC) seeks an Executive Director to lead a dynamic not-for-profit, which manages a 40-acre suburban sanctuary, operates an established environmental education program, and aspires to become a regional community sustainability leader. Established in 1960, NCNC manages the town-owned Susan Dwight Bliss Park, a public open space featuring diverse natural habitats. 
The position calls for an advanced degree and/or relevant work experience in conservation, science, education, and non-profit management, coupled with strong business and management skills. The Executive Director is a strategic thinker, persuasive communicator, and an excellent fundraiser, with the ability to engage the diverse communities of the greater Fairfield County area.
The Long Island Housing Partnership is looking for an experienced community organizer to focus on Affordable Housing in the Yes in My Backyard (YIMBY) Campaign. |
It is officially the first weekend of summer!! To help you all get outside and enjoy the summer sunshine (with sunscreen, of course), we’ve got a couple of activities that celebrate the weather, vacation time, Long Island’s history, and the landscape. Polo Match and Lawn Party at Caumsett
Don't miss out. 25 Lloyd Harbor Road, Huntington, Caumsett State Park. 1pm-6pm. Chef's Night Out in Syosset
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On Saturday from 1-6pm, a polo match and lawn party will be underway at the historic Caumsett State Park. The match will benefit the Middle Island Caring for Kids. In addition to sweaty horses, swinging mallets, raffles, and a hat contest, great food will be served from Tierra Mar Restaurant of Dune Road. It is a great event for the whole family.
If you’re not a fan of the summer heat, check out this event that revolves around ice and food on June 25th. The Syosset Chamber of Commerce and the New York Islanders invite you to attend the first annual “Chef’s Night Out” to taste, sample, and drink the best the town has to offer. The event will be held at Iceworks, the Islanders' practice facility at 175 Underhill Boulevard, Syosset from 6:30-10:30 pm on June 25th. The cost is $40 with pre-registration and $45 at the door. All proceeds from the fundraiser will be donated to the New York Islanders Children Foundation (a 501c corporation) and the Syosset Chamber of Commerce. There will be cocktails, entrees, dessert, raffles, music and a surprise guest. Call 516-364-7150 for more information or visit their 
SMART GROWTH NEWS Newsletter Editor: Michelle Dutchen, Communications Director We strive to provide continued quality publications such as this each week. If you are interested in becoming a newsletter or news blast sponsor, please call the office at 631-261-0242 for rates and opportunities. If you have any news or events that you would like to add to our newsletter, submit them to info@visionlongisland.org for consideration.
For more information about Vision Long Island, visit http://www.visionlongisland.org or contact us at: |
