Eleven different organizations, projects and plans were honored at Vision Long Island’s eighth annual Smart Growth Awards on Friday. The awards, which took place at the Crest Hollow Country Club in Woodbury, celebrated those who have helped revitalize and develop communities on LI.
The ceremony is part of Vision Long Island’s Smart Growth program, which promotes economically sustainable and environmentally friendly growth. The winners were chosen out of approximately 50 submissions.
Alexan at West Hempstead
Alexan at West Hempstead and developers Trammell Crow Residential were honored for their efforts in transforming the run-down Courtesy Hotel in West Hempstead to an upscale apartment complex. The hotel has long since been a topic of controversy for residents, most of who believe it to be an eyesore and a site for crime.
“By changing a blighted hotel into a housing community and making use of the location adjacent to the West Hempstead LIRR station, Trammell Crow Residential will be promoting a developed, transit-oriented community,” said Adrienne Esposito, executive director for the Citizens Campaign for the Environment and Master of Ceremonies for the event.
Kingdom Family Holdings was also honored for Marquis at Mineola, a new residential building that features strategic design elements and encourages walkability. Other award recipients include Mayor Ralph Suozzi, TRITEC Development Group for the Patchogue Village Center, the Nassau Suffolk Coalition for the Homeless, among others.
Sen. Charles Schumer also attended the ceremony in support of Vision Long Island and the developmental efforts being made by various organizations.
“Smart Growth is the future,” Schumer said. “Every vibrant community that doesn’t grow will die. All of the investments we’ve made in the quality of life and education on Long Island will be seen in the next 50 years.”
In the meantime, Vision Long Island plans to continue implementing Smart Growth in local communities through education, training, policy development and community visioning.
