Cover photo: Concept art for the Patchogue hotel (Credit – J2M Architecture)
A long-discussed hotel project in Patchogue has moved closer to fruition after the Village Board and trustees unanimously approved a zoning change for the site. The decision paves the way for the construction of a five-story Hilton hotel at the corner of West Avenue and Division Street, replacing the abandoned bowling alley that currently occupies the property.
The zoning change reclassifies the site from industrial use to a special category tailored for hotel developments. This marks a significant milestone for the project, which aims to bring Patchogue its first hotel. However, the project still faces additional scrutiny and approval from the Village Planning Board.
The proposed hotel would include 96 guest rooms and 13 apartments, offering accommodations for visitors to the area. The location, directly across from the Patchogue train station and near the Fire Island ferry, is seen as a strategic choice to attract tourists seeking easy access to the oceanfront and nearby attractions.
Architect James Manicone, who is on the project, expressed satisfaction with the zoning decision but acknowledged that community concerns have influenced the hotel’s design and plans.
“We’re certainly happy with the decision,” said James Manicone, an architect on the project, which calls for the construction of a five-story Hilton hotel featuring 96 guest rooms and 13 apartments. “There’s been a lot of discussion about this project, certainly many changes. We had to listen and understand what the concerns are. We certainly want to put together a hotel the entire community can be proud of.”
Some residents remain apprehensive about the scale of the hotel and its potential impact on the neighborhood. Concerns range from increased traffic to the overall fit of a five-story development within the surrounding area.
Despite these reservations, Patchogue Village Mayor Paul Pontieri emphasized the project’s potential benefits, framing the hotel as a valuable addition to the community’s tourism infrastructure.
“This becomes as much an oceanfront community, allowing people to stay here, take the ferry, go to the ocean,” said Pontieri.
While the zoning approval is a major step forward, the project still has several hurdles to clear before construction can begin. The Village Planning Board will conduct a detailed review of the site plan, evaluating factors such as traffic impact, environmental considerations, and architectural design.
The public will be able to address their concerns likely as part of the planning board’s review process. This will provide residents with another opportunity to voice their opinions and raise concerns about the project.
If the planning board gives the green light, construction on the hotel could begin within a few months. The timeline and final design will depend on the board’s recommendations and any adjustments needed to address community feedback.
Supporters of the project highlight its potential to boost local tourism and create jobs in Patchogue. With its proximity to key transportation hubs and attractions, the hotel could become a hub for visitors looking to explore the South Shore of Long Island and less trafficked areas of Fire Island.
While skepticism remains among some residents, the combination of zoning approval and further public input aims to balance the project’s development with community interests. For now, the Patchogue hotel project is one step closer to becoming a reality.
