July 30, 2013 - Smith Point, NY - Legislator Kate Browning (WF-Shirley) announced that Suffolk County is seeking proposals to develop the Smith Point Marina for recreational purposes. This will be the County’s second attempt in four years to attract private development at the marina. In 2009 Suffolk County issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) that sought interested parties to develop several county marinas, but no interested parties responded. This time the County, at the direction of Legislator Browning, has issued a Request for Expression of Interest (RFEI) specifically for the Smith Point Marina.
Smith Point was included in the 2009 RFP among other County sites, but unfortunately there were no responses to develop the Smith Point Marina. In 2009 the economy was crashing and there was little capital for investment, which may have deterred proposals for the site. However, the county has always intended on improving the location and continues to work towards that goal. With the economy slowly on the rebound Legislator Browning is hopeful there will be a greater interest in 2013.
“There has always been a long-term plan to develop the Smith Point Marina into a full-scale marina and recreational site for the surrounding community,” stated Legislator Browning. “Due to cuts to the County’s capital budget, and a looming deficit, the best approach to reach this goal is through private investment. I believe that the timing is right to reconsider proposals.”
In 2012 the Tri-Hamlet Renaissance Project recognized the marina as a key location to help revitalize the area. The report recommended selling the land to a private entity, so that it could be developed. Selling parkland would require that the land be alienated, which requires both state and county approval. In response to the renewed push to develop the marina, Legislator Browning introduced and passed Resolution 397-12, which directed the Parks Department to create and advertise the Request for Expressions of Interest (RFEI). An RFEI is broader than an RFP in that responders can submit proposals for any idea they may have and are not limited to any specific plan. However, regardless of the concept, a private developer will either need to enter into a license agreement with the county to develop the marina, or purchase the land and develop it as their own.
“The community clearly wants to see this site reach its full potential, and has even recommended the sale of the property,” stated Legislator Browning. “The sale of parkland is not an easy undertaking, but all options should be on the table. By broadening the options should be on the table. By broadening the options available to responders the County has the best opportunity to find a suitable proposal. It is a beautiful location and can be a major revenue generator for our taxpayers.”
The facility currently has a bulk headed channel 1,500 feet long by 185 feet wide, two boat-launch ramps, an associated paved entrance road, and lit parking area. The parking area has 50 vehicles with-trailer spaces and 38 vehicles spaces. To receive a full copy of the RFEI, beginning July 26, 2013, potential responders must contact the Parks Department directly, specifically request a copy of the RFEI, and complete a registration form provided at the time of inquiry. Registration is a prerequisite for attendance at any/all site tours, submission of technical questions, and for submitting a response to the RFEI.
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RFEI packages became available for pick-up commencing July 26, 2013 at:
Suffolk County Department of Parks, Recreation, and Conservation
Administration Building
West Sayville County Golf Course, Montauk Highway,
West Sayville, New York
Telephone: 631-854-4949
Fax: 631-854-4969