By BERNADETTE GIACOMAZZO
His remarks were part of the board-s public hearing on the college-s proposed plans.
Although some spectators expressed concerns about an already-difficult parking situation in Rockville Centre, Bogner assured the spectators that the college-s proposal for a dormitory and campus center would have no bearing on the existing Rockville Centre parking situation.
The college has released plans for a dormitory for 150 students, additional classrooms, expansion of the gym, a new dining hall, and a new chapel. The structures, which would be built in three phases spanning a decade, require approval by the village.
Bogner said Molloy needs the additions to maintain its long-term viability. We are faced with the demographics of declining high school graduates on Long Island and the entire Northeast, he said, explaining that Molloy would have to attract and house students from outside the area, in addition to its current commuter student body. These facilities are what today-s students expect and demand.
Our main competitors for students Adelphi and St. John-s have already improved their facilities, Bogner said. While we are nowhere near the size of these larger institutions, and do not intend to be, to remain competitive we must make the most effective and efficient usage of our limited space.
Bogner also tried to assuage residents- by promising to keep the college-s aesthetics consistent with the village-s . We need to do [improvements] in the most pleasing aesthetic manner possible ... in keeping with the remarkable village where we live, he said. We believe that the plan we have proposed does just that.
Comments about this story? BGiacomazzo@liherald.com or (516) 569-4000 ext. 240.
