The Patchogue Board of Trustees meeting on June 9, 2025, focused on community improvements, particularly regarding sidewalk conditions and safety measures on South Ocean Avenue. Residents expressed concerns about the state of the sidewalks and the need for aesthetic enhancements, including the addition of grass strips and trees to improve the street's appearance.
Mary Kate Fury, a resident, highlighted the poor condition of the sidewalks and the lack of greenery along South Ocean Avenue. She emphasized the importance of making the area more visually appealing and safer for pedestrians, especially children. Fury suggested that the village consider planting trees and creating a "tree lawn" to beautify the street, which has historical significance as a connection between downtown and the waterfront.
Trustees acknowledged the need for improvements, noting that South Ocean Avenue is one of the village's main thoroughfares. They discussed the challenges of funding such projects but agreed that enhancing the street's infrastructure is a priority. The board also recognized the safety concerns raised by residents, particularly regarding speeding vehicles in the area, which poses risks to pedestrians.
The discussion included the potential for implementing speed limit signs and possibly speed bumps to improve safety. However, mixed reviews on speed bumps were noted, indicating that while some residents support them, others have concerns about their effectiveness.
Overall, the meeting underscored the community's desire for a safer and more attractive South Ocean Avenue, with plans for future discussions on how to address these issues effectively. The board committed to keeping the community's needs on their radar as they explore options for improvements.