Proposed Dune Road Condominium Development Threatens Wetlands
Credit: The Southampton Press
Dockers restaurant and marina in Southampton proposes a 25-unit condominium with tennis court and pool surrounded by environmentally-sensitive wetlands
Against the backdrop of a changing climate, Dune Road in Southampton is increasingly at risk of flooding from worsening storms and sea level rise. Now, 94 Dune Rd. LLC, which owns Dockers, an existing, longstanding restaurant and marina, is seeking to build 25 condominiums, tennis court, and pool, all on a property zoned for just one single-family home.
Containing acres of wetlands, Dune Road has been classified by the New York State Department of State (DOS) as being located in a “Significant Coastal Fish and Wildlife Habitat,” is in a number of significant flood zones, contains New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) mapped seagrass beds, and is listed as a significant scenic area and roadway by the Town of Southampton’s 1999 Comprehensive Plan Update. The Dockers property itself contains acres of wetlands and is surrounded by protected lands on both sides.
The environmental impact of building an overly dense residential development in an ecologically fragile and flood zone area is profound. This project not only further threatens the surrounding wetlands, but also poses a threat to the natural resources of our ground and surface waters.
The proposed development is completely at odds with the current zoning in the Town of Southampton, and to allow such a drastic change from one non-conforming use to another would set a dangerous precedent for future development projects proposed in the town. This project is also subject to the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA). The Town of Southampton Planning Board is currently accepting public comment on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS), which can be found here.
Recognizing the significant threat to our natural resources and the future of zoning in the Town of Southampton, Group for the East End is urging the Southampton Town Planning Board to deny the applicant’s 25-condominium proposal and to accept alternatives that include a preservation plan for the property.
Planning Board Meeting
Thursday, September 11
6:00 PM
Southampton Town Hall
What Can You Do?
Join the Group at the planning board meeting and speak up for the environment and community character of Southampton!
