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Business owners say they were blindsided by month-long closure of Hampton Bays municipal lot
Summary
Business owners told the town board they learned only when the municipal lot was closed that the Hampton Bays back lot would be shut for several weeks for drainage, lighting and curb work; the town says some outreach occurred and staff are seeking temporary parking options.
Hampton Bays business owners told the Southampton Town Board they were surprised and upset after the municipal lot behind the post office was shut for what contractors and staff described as a multi-week reconstruction of drainage, lighting, curbs and other improvements.
Council members and project staff said the work is more extensive than a routine mill-and-pave and will add about 15 parking stalls when complete. ‘‘We’re gaining about 15 parking stalls,’’ said Nick, the project manager who joined the meeting by Zoom, while answering council questions about capacity.
Several business owners, according to board members, found out only when the lot was closed. One council member said the loss of municipal parking in July—one of the busiest months for seasonal businesses—was ‘‘unconscionable’’ given owner reliance on summer revenue. Board members said they had discussed the project with the civic association and the chamber but acknowledged broader notification to all affected business owners, including non-English speakers, was inadequate.
Town staff and members described steps to mitigate short-term impacts. They said the contractor is working quickly with a target to finish by the end of July, and suggested temporary measures such as moving employee parking and identifying alternate lots while work continues. Several council members urged improving future outreach: mailing notices, working through the chamber, and providing clear start and end dates to reduce the surprise effect on businesses.
The town will continue to coordinate with the contractor and community groups and expects the completed reconstruction to increase parking and improve drainage and pedestrian facilities. The meeting record shows the board discussed further steps but did not adopt a formal mitigation motion at the public session.
The board moved into executive session after the public portion of the meeting; no formal vote on the Hampton Bays project was recorded in open session.
