Saturday, November 8, 2025
I am proud to share some exciting and substantial developments taking place in the Village of Island Park. With the continued dedication of our village board and community partners, we are entering a new era of progress — one marked by critical infrastructure improvements, enhanced public safety and a commitment to the long-term vitality of our community.
Most recently, I, along with members of the village board, met with representatives of National Grid to finalize plans for a major gas infrastructure replacement project. This critical undertaking is scheduled to begin this month, and will continue through April 2026. As mandated by state regulations, National Grid will be upgrading gas mains, service lines, and related infrastructure in specific areas of the village.
This multi-year project will affect portions of Long Beach Road, Radcliffe Road, Quebec Road, Sagamore Road, Arlington Walk, Keane Walk and Suffolk Road. We understand that any construction can be an inconvenience, which is why I’m pleased to report that, after productive negotiations, National Grid has committed to going above and beyond the minimum restoration requirements. Instead of patching sections of pavement, all impacted roads will be repaved from curb to curb — at no cost to the village. This will not only improve safety and appearance, but will also ensure that our infrastructure remains resilient and modernized for decades to come.
We encourage all residents to stay informed. Further information about the project, including anticipated timelines and updates, is available on the village website, at villageofislandpark.com/roadwork.
While infrastructure is foundational, public safety and neighborhood integrity remain at the forefront of our efforts. Our Building Department continues to play a crucial role in ensuring that properties around the village are well maintained. High grass, debris and property neglect are addressed swiftly and effectively, keeping our community clean and welcoming.
I’m especially proud to report that “zombie homes” — long-vacant and blighted properties — have been all but eradicated in Island Park, thanks to targeted legislation and community engagement. In fact, we currently have the lowest number of vacant homes and businesses since Superstorm Sandy in 2012. That speaks volumes about the resilience and recovery of our community, and the results of our continued hard work.
We are a strong, forward-thinking community that doesn’t shy away from tough challenges. And we’re not slowing down. In keeping with that spirit, we recently passed Local Law No. 4 of 2025, which places a temporary moratorium on battery energy storage systems in the village. This precautionary measure reflects our commitment to ensuring that emerging technologies do not compromise the health and safety of our residents. While we understand the importance of sustainable energy solutions, we must also take the necessary time to evaluate the long-term impacts and ensure that appropriate safeguards are in place.
As I wrote in my last op-ed, “Don’t ‘BESS’ with Island Park.” That message still holds true.
Whether it’s infrastructure concerns, property upkeep or new energy technologies, our commitment remains firm: to prioritize the safety, quality of life and well-being of every Island Park resident. These are the promises we made, and these are the promises we are keeping.
Island Park is in the midst of a renaissance. We are revitalizing our streets, our neighborhoods and our shared sense of community. This transformation is not only for us, but also for our children and grandchildren who will call this beautiful village home for generations to come.
As we enjoy another summer season, I want to thank every resident for your continued support, engagement and pride in our village. The progress we’ve made — and will continue to make — is only possible because of you. God bless you all, and may you have a happy, healthy and safe summer.
Michael McGinty is the mayor of Island Park.
