27 Jun Brookhaven Highway Department Completes $1.9-Million Stormwater/Flood Mitigation Project in Mastic Beach

Mastic Beach, NY – Brookhaven Highway Superintendent Daniel P. Losquadro has announced the completion of a stormwater and flood mitigation project on Riviera Drive in Mastic Beach, adjacent to the Mastic Beach Marina.

As part of this flood mitigation project, three wetland parcels were acquired to create a natural retention area to increase coastal resilience. In addition, Riviera Drive was raised on average 9 inches, and up to 12 inches in isolated areas. Stormwater will now be redirected to the natural retention area on Riviera Drive, re-establishing natural marsh functions; all outfalls along the marina have been retrofitted with back-flow preventers; and five new drainage structures were installed.  Riviera Drive, along with portions of Elm Road, Lakeview Drive, Orchid Drive, Dogwood Road, and Woodland Drive were all fully restored. The total cost for this project was $1.9 million which was included in the Town’s capital program.
This project is a smaller portion of a larger 147-acre coastal resilience project led by the Town of Brookhaven that includes an extensive buy-out program for homes in high-risk flood areas.

“Managed retreat, or the strategy of moving human infrastructure away from the advancing ocean, will be unavoidable in the future,” said Superintendent Losquadro. “While the Town has launched a deliberate program of retreat for residents of flood-prone areas in Mastic Beach, this project will restore wetlands as a buffer for those who remain.”

“Residents of Mastic Beach have dealt with flooding and storm damage for far too long,” said Assemblyman Joe DeStefano, who has spearheaded community meetings to address the issue. “This project is a smart investment that helps protect homes, improves public safety, and strengthens the community’s resilience against future storms. I commend Highway Superintendent Dan Losquadro, his Chief Deputy Superintendent Steve Tricarico and the Town of Brookhaven for delivering a solution that addresses a longstanding problem.”

DeStefano added: “This project demonstrates that environmental protection and protecting taxpayers can go hand in hand. By restoring natural wetlands and improving stormwater management, we are reducing flood risks while making better use of our natural resources. These are the types of practical solutions our communities need.”

“Families should not have to worry every time a major storm approaches,” DeStefano said. “The improvements along Riviera Drive and the surrounding neighborhood will help reduce flooding, protect property, and improve quality of life for the residents who call Mastic Beach home. As we continue to see stronger storms and changing weather patterns, investments in flood mitigation and coastal resilience are more important than ever. This project represents a proactive approach to safeguarding our neighborhoods and preserving critical infrastructure. The Town’s commitment to restoring wetlands and improving drainage infrastructure will benefit residents for years to come. These efforts help strengthen our shoreline defenses while ensuring taxpayer dollars are being invested in projects that provide real, measurable results.”

“Drainage projects across this sprawling Town are a priority for the Town board and our Highway Superintendent Dan Losquadro,” said Brookhaven Town Supervisor Dan Panico. “As we concentrate on the core services of Town government, necessary drainage work is at the top of the list and a critical function of the highway department.”

“I am proud to work with other elected officials who value protecting our natural environment and ensuring these lands stay as a buffer into the future,” said Councilwoman Karen Dunne Kesnig.

Caption: Councilwoman Karen Dunne Kesnig, Highway Superintendent Dan Losquadro and Assemblyman Joe DeStefano on Riviera Drive in Mastic Beach.

Department Completes $1.9-Million Stormwater/Flood Mitigation Project in Mastic Beach