Town Officials Break Ground At New Brentwood Playground

BRENTWOOD, NY — After three years of closing, a new state-of-the-art playground is underway in Brentwood.

Islip Town Supervisor Angie Carpenter and Assemblyman Phil Ramos broke ground for a playground at Ross Memorial Park playground in Brentwood last week, to celebrate as part of the park's complete overhaul.

In recent years, the Town had received numerous complaints from residents about dangerous criminal behavior, along with an influx of reports from the MTA Police and Suffolk County Police about illegal activities at the park, a release said.

In 2020, in consultation with SCPD, Town officials made the decision to close the park. Previously termed “needle park,” the site had been known for criminal activity including drug use and sales, which negatively impacted local businesses, a release said.

“Our residents deserve a safe and functional park to enjoy outdoor recreational activities with friends and family, and Ross Park simply did not allow for that,” said Carpenter.

The site has been prepared for the installation of a gazebo, lighting structures, high-definition surveillance cameras and a stage for the performing arts. Stamped concrete walkways and a new parking lot are already complete.

"I have made it my mission to ensure all Town-owned facilities are safe for our residents to enjoy. Ross Memorial Park in Brentwood is no exception," said Carpenter. "We are steadfast in our commitment to reclaim the park as an asset for the community to enjoy once restorations are completed."

Last year, Assemblyman Ramos presented the Town with a capital fund grant for $655,000 to be used for the Ross Memorial Park improvement project.

"The construction of a new Ross Park is a testament to our commitment to creating a better quality of life for all our residents," said Ramos. "By securing the needed $655,000 from the state for this project and working with my partners in the town, we will be improving the lives of our community for generations to come. The construction of a new Ross Park is another promise kept to the people of Brentwood and another proud milestone that will create a new epicenter of culture, music, and community that will revitalize our downtown."

Supervisor Carpenter also thanked Assemblyman Ramos for his work in securing a brighter future for the park.

"Our sincerest gratitude to Assemblyman Ramos for his ongoing support and partnership with our Town," she said. "With this kind of cooperation to simply get the job done, we can continue to achieve much for the betterment of the community."