Huntington hears hours of testimony as Rosewood Farm owners seek historic overlay and commercial use

The Town of Huntington on May 13 held a lengthy public hearing on applications to designate Rosewood Farm at 473 Woodbury Road as a historic landmark and to apply the towns historic building overlay, a change that would allow commercial uses including a boutique hotel, spa, restaurant and limited gatherings on the 23.7-acre property.

Supporters told the town board the Rosenfeld familys plan will preserve the estate and local history while bringing visitors and spending to Cold Spring Harbor, while neighbors and experts warned a commercial use would change the neighborhoods character and raise traffic, noise and infrastructure concerns.

Proponents described Rosewood as a rare intact estate and emphasized preservation. David Breitbart, a licensed architect, said the propertys buildings and landscape are "a place for family and friends" and urged the board to "be on the right side of history." Mark Bozek, a local businessowner, said the proposal would preserve the estate and provide economic benefits to downtown businesses.

Opponents focused on traffic, event size and long-term control. Erin Sheehan, a Cold Spring Harbor resident, opposed the project citing…