A Vision for the Patchogue River

A few months ago I wrote a blog about noise pollution on the Patchogue River and its' negative impact on the quality of life for riverfront residents.Since then,I've realized that the noise nuisance exists within the context of a broader issue.

Twelve or more years ago, when the river began to be talked about as a potential economic and social asset to the village, a committee to explore the possibilities was established  As a resident, I participated in many of these discussions.  Excitement and enthusiasm abounded as a variety of water related uses were discussed.  At no time was the colonization of the river by bars and nightclubs considered to be an appropriate or desirable use.

Since then, riverfront committee after riverfront committee has planned and replanned yet again.  We are now waiting for the Local Waterways Rivitalization Project to provide guidelines.  Whie we have planned and waited, a proliferation of bars and clubs has created a rowdy atmosphere, noise, litter, parking violations, traffic  problems and even some vandalism.  Not yet addressed, but of significant concern is the sobriety of patrons, who, as they leave these clubs after several  hours of drinking , ride around the village and the surrounding areas

What do we have on the river, or more to the point what don't we have?

We don't have a marine museum, which could showcase the history of the river and might also offer information about its' marine life or its' ecology.  It might also provide a venue for instruction in the buildng and repair of small watercraft.  Other appropriate activities would be the teaching of safe boating practices and fishing clinics for youngsters.  A little imagination, I'm sure, could identify several other appropriate museum activities.

We don't have an art gallery with marine themed art and artifacts.

Nor do we have a bed and breakfast, which might also serve as a small conference center.  A bed and breakfast might attract patrons who would have utilized the unrealized hotel on the Four Corners.

There are no recreational pursuits on the river which are appropriate for young families with children. Unless one wishes to "party" and unless one can bear the cost of partying, there are no recreational pursuits for either young or old.  The river, which could be providing educational, recreational, and cultural activities for village residents and the larger community has, instead,provided an economic windfall for a few business owners.

How to recover the river?

To start:  Enact a moratorium on any further establishment or expansion of bars, clubs and restaurants on the river.  Honor that moratorium. 

And then:  Stirctly enforce all ordinances regarding noise, lighting, occupancy, parking, fire and safety  Create an atmosphere of responsiveness to resident complaints when ordinances are violated.  Adjudicate violations in a fair and timely manner, which should have the effect of discouraging repeat violations. 

And finally:  The vision, energy and committment which has revitalized Main St, but which has been sadly absent on the river, should be harnessed to recover the river and all it has to offer the community.

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