It’s time to speak up. It’s time to show up.
Two major projects are in the works. The first, the Lighthouse — right next door — is being described as the largest development in Nassau County since the creation of Levittown.
The second is in our backyard, at the Nassau University Medical Center. For those who haven’t heard, and for others who need reminding, the NUMC has proposed the development of a “health care village” on the 52-acre property at the corner of Carman Avenue and Hempstead Turnpike. The project is the centerpiece of the Nassau Health Care Corporation’s modernization of its two campuses, the 19-story medical center in East Meadow and the senior living complex in Uniondale. The expansion of the hospital’s Emergency Department and a new veterans health clinic are already in the works.
While opponents of the Lighthouse, mostly from Garden City, loudly voiced their views at a Sept. 22 zoning hearing, East Meadow and Salisbury residents appeared to be few and far between. While there were the usual civic and business leaders in attendance, the voices of the communities that would most directly feel the development’s effects generated little volume.
Although the NUMC’s proposal has not been the focus of anywhere near the attention generated by the Lighthouse project, its size and scope would no doubt change the center of East Meadow.
We like both ideas. They would revitalize underutilized areas that are dominated by vast concrete parking lots, create jobs and likely boost the local economy. But we want to hear from you, our readers. What do you think of the projects? Do they scare you or excite you? What impact do you think they will have on your future? What questions still need to be answered?
At the end of each Herald story, there is information on how to contact the reporter or obtain more information. Our new Web site, liherald.com, offers readers the opportunity to post comments on the page. The East Meadow desk can be reached at (516) 569-4000 ext. 287.
We welcome your input on the future of your community.