Lawmakers Question $200M Long Island Hub Funding as Predevelopment Remains Limited

Presiding Officer Anthony Piccirillo and Legislators raised sharp questions about the Long Island Hub allocation in the capital program, arguing the project lacks a viable plan despite large sums assigned to it. "This is a lot of money that's set aside for something that I don't have a clear picture on," Legislator Gregory Doroski said, asking EDP for the project's current status.

Commissioner Sarah Lansdale told the committee the county issued a request for expressions of interest in 2025 and that the Legislature previously accepted $1 million in Regional Infrastructure Accelerator Grant funding to support predevelopment. "Currently we are doing phase I environmental site assessments and surveys on the property," Lansdale said. Chair Piccirillo responded that, in his view, the project was "on life support" and opposed further taxpayer spending until a clearer, deliverable plan is in hand.

Why it matters: the Long Island Hub is among the largest single capital set‑asides discussed at the hearing, and several legislators — including the Deputy Presiding Officer and members of both parties — signaled skepticism about continued allocations without measurable progress. EDP said the grant-funded predevelopment work is underway and that the department will continue coordinating with the Legislature on next steps.

What comes next: staff said they'll provide more detailed updates on studies and any solicitations tied to the Ronkonkoma site. Several members asked that future appropriations be contingent on demonstrable milestones rather than continuing open-ended commitments.