Making Way for a New Sag Harbor Park

To clear the way for the proposed John Steinbeck Waterfront Park, the demolition of abandoned buildings on three parcels of land in Sag Harbor Village will begin next Monday at 10:30 a.m., announced Mayor Sandra Schroeder. 

In July, the Southampton Town Board voted unanimously to approve the purchase of 1, 3, and 5 Ferry Road, for $10.5 million from Jay Bialsky, a real estate developer. One stipulation to the purchase, according to a statement released by the town, was that "the land must be vacant, cleared, and ready to turn into a park." Mr. Bialsky, therefore, is responsible for Monday's demolition. 

The lots, which were purchased on the village's behalf, are located on the Sag Harbor side of the bridge that leads to North Haven.

Once the dilapidated buildings have been removed, the village can move forward with its plan to use the 1.25 acres to create a public park that will be linked by land and water to Windmill Park and Long Wharf, and will feature a beach area, a fishing and small boat pier, and a pedestrian walkway. 

During an appearance before the town board last month, Mayor Schroeder said the village hoped to begin work on the park early next year.