Farmingville, NY - On September 10, Supervisor Ed Romaine and Councilwoman Jane Bonner announced that work will begin soon on the reconstruction of the east and west jetties at the inlet of Mt. Sinai Harbor. State Senator Ken LaValle secured a $3 million New York State Grant to partly fund the project and Brookhaven Town has budgeted $5.6 million for the remainder of the cost. Councilwoman Bonner worked for many years to secure the funding and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) permits that are required before reconstruction could start. Her persistence has finally paid off and the project is expected to be completed in 2020. Pictured are Supervisor Romaine and Councilwoman Bonner reviewing plans for the reconstruction of the Mount Sinai jetties. The west jetty is visible in the background.
The Mount Sinai Harbor jetties are critical to the navigation of thousands of recreational and commercial boats, and to maintain public safety along the north shore of the Town. Over the years, the rocks that comprise the jetties have collapsed such that the seaward ends become submerged at high tide and the elevation of the jetty stones above the water surface at high tide is, in places, less than four feet. In addition, the west jetty becomes detached from the land at high water and sand is passing through or around the east jetty. Located between the two jetties is a navigational channel that provides access to the Long Island Sound from the deeper waters of the harbor. Navigational traffic includes many private pleasure craft, commercial fishing and lobster boats, and emergency rescue vessels including, police, fire department, and bay constables. The harbor also functions as a place of refuge for vessels during storms.
Supervisor Romaine said, “The safe navigation of Mt. Sinai Harbor depends heavily on the jetties, but their condition has worsened and it’s time to rebuild them. I thank Senator LaValle for his support on this project and for all that he does for the residents of Brookhaven Town.”
Councilwoman Bonner said, "The jetties have been battered by many big storms, nor’easters and hurricanes over the years that have made navigation of the inlet more hazardous. Now, we can begin to rebuild, so that Mt. Sinai Harbor can be a much safer place for everyone.”
Division of Public Information * Office of the Supervisor
One Independence Hill • Farmingville • NY 11738 • Phone 631-451-6595