Fort Pond Reopens Doors

Fort Pond House is once again open for use after a three-year renovation and restoration of the house and land. Official opening ceremonies will be held there on Sunday afternoon, beginning at 2.

The four-acre property, which has waterfront access to the pond, is at 128 Shepherd’s Neck Road. It was bought by East Hampton Town in 2003, after which school and community groups used the old house on the site for a variety of classes and other activities. In 2010, however, despite widespread community opposition, the rundown building was shuttered and the property was put up for sale by a majority vote of the town board. The move prompted several lawsuits.

The resolution authorizing the sale was rescinded in August 2013, and restoration began, led by Councilman Peter Van Scoyoc and the town’s property management committee. The site was named Carol Morrison Park, honoring the late Ms. Morrison, a Montauk resident, environmentalist, and land preservation supporter.

In a statement last week, Mr. Van Scoyoc cited the efforts of town staffers as well as donations from private groups and businesses, including Men at Work construction, Warren’s Nursery, Fort Pond Native Plants, and Concerned Citizens of Montauk, in getting the property reopened.

The park, which includes trails and a launching ramp for canoes and kayaks, will be open daily from dawn to dusk. The house can be used by appointment through the East Hampton Town Department of Parks and Recreation.

Four times during any one year, excluding the months of July and August, individuals or groups may rent the entire property, both house and grounds, for their exclusive use. Town board approval must be obtained, and only one such event in any month will be permitted.