Developer seeks two extra units in Copiague downtown project; board keeps record open for final technical confirmations

171 Oak Street LLC counsel Nicole Blanda presented a redevelopment plan for five assembled parcels in downtown Copiague to construct a three-story apartment building with 29 units (19 one-bedroom and 10 two-bedroom units). The project proposes 34 parking spaces, meeting the town requirement of 34 spaces, and includes a 20% affordable set-aside (six units) governed by a covenant running with the land, which Blanda said would remain irrespective of future ownership.

Blanda explained the applicant seeks a two-unit density variance (29 units proposed versus 27 units allowed under the zoning as-read) to subsidize construction and the long-term affordable component. The project's traffic consultant provided a trip-generation study concluding a minimal net increase in peak-hour trips, and the fire marshal had no unresolved issues reported in the meeting. Counsel cited a prior downtown Copiague density variance (the Lofts project) that had allowed additional units as precedent.

The board asked about parking sufficiency and unit mix for the affordable component; Blanda said six affordable units would be mixed and scattered throughout the building rather than concentrated. The architect confirmed a flat roof and that mechanical equipment would be small split units centered on the roof.

The hearing was closed and the record kept open for any remaining technical confirmations; the board signaled readiness to consider a motion but left the final administrative steps pending minor outstanding items. The record includes planning and fire-marshal memos, a traffic study by IMEG and site-plan approvals from planning.