A proposed three-story apartment building in Downtown Copiague is making waves as the Planning Board considers site plan approval for the project. The applicant, 471 Oak Street LLC, aims to transform a collection of five tax lots into a modern residential complex featuring 29 apartments—19 one-bedroom and 10 two-bedroom units.

The site, located on the north side of Oak Street, will see the demolition of existing structures, including single-family homes and a former funeral home. This redevelopment is expected to align more closely with the Downtown Copiague zoning code, consolidating multiple driveways into a single curb cut for improved access.

The building will cover a footprint of 11,225 square feet, with parking for 34 vehicles—meeting the town's requirements. Notably, the project will also include two electric vehicle charging stations, a first for the area, reflecting a growing trend towards sustainability in local developments.

During the meeting, board members expressed support for the inclusion of electric vehicle spaces, with one member suggesting that such features should be codified for future projects. The site plan also includes landscaping, a bike parking area, and a refuse enclosure, all designed with dark sky compliance in mind to minimize light pollution.

As the Planning Board deliberates, the outcome of this project could significantly impact the community, providing much-needed housing while enhancing the urban landscape of Downtown Copiague.