By Long Island Life and Politics
(Cover credit – Village of Patchogue)
The Patchogue Arts Council (PAC) recently received a $2 million grant for the construction of a new, multi-disciplinary, cultural arts center on Main Street in East Patchogue. This $3.5 million project is part of a broader $47 million downtown revitalization effort to redevelop the former Mediterranean Manor site into housing. The cultural arts center is also supported by an $800,000 Suffolk County Jumpstart grant.
“Investing in the arts is investing in our community,” Governor Kathy Hochul (D) said. “The new cultural arts center will be a cornerstone for creativity and education, enhancing the vibrant cultural fabric of Patchogue and providing a space for artists and the community to thrive.”
The Patchogue Cultural Arts Center is a product of collaborative efforts involving local government, business partners, and community stakeholders. A notable aspect of this collaboration is its link to the Greybarn Housing Project. As part of the overlay zone requirements, land was set aside for public benefit, which the Town of Brookhaven determined to be ideal for PAC. As part of the project, 20 percent of the 91 units will be set aside for workforce and affordable housing, including for those with developmental disabilities in consultation with the Suffolk County Planning Department and pursuant to a resolution of the Suffolk County Planning Commission.
Patchogue Village Mayor Paul Pontieri (pictured above right) said, “This funding will not only enhance our local arts scene but also contribute to the economic and social vitality of the Greater Patchogue Community and its surrounding areas.”
“This project is a testament to what we can achieve when public and private sectors work together,” Brookhaven Deputy Town Supervisor Neil Foley (R-Blue Point) added. “The new center will be a hub for cultural and community activities, benefiting residents and visitors alike.”
“We are beyond words and so thankful for the support from Governor Hochul and Suffolk County, which will help bring our vision for a comprehensive cultural center to life,” PAC Executive Director Beth Giacummo said. “This center will elevate the arts community in countless ways and foster a greater sense of togetherness in Patchogue. This funding will make the arts available and accessible to our growing community. It will exponentially advance PAC’s capacity to serve, create opportunity, and support for L.I. creatives and beyond.”
PAC Board of Trustees President Lori Devlin said, “The new center will further solidify Patchogue’s reputation as a vibrant cultural hub. We look forward to the positive impact this will have on our community.”
Greybarn Housing Project Managing Partner Gregg Rechler said, “This is an amazing way to support a vital organization in the community and we thank Governor Kathy Hochul for her leadership. We could not be more excited to bring our Greybarn brand of luxury homes to the East Patchogue community and provide quality housing to an already-bustling downtown.”
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