Developer Gets ZBA OK For 10 Apartments in Huntington Village

Developer Larry Weinberger plans to add 10 apartments to the second floor of 355 New York Ave., which also has three retail storefronts, including Super Runners Shop, on the ground floor. Long Islander News photo/Andrew Wroblewski

By Janee Law
jlaw@longislandergroup.com

The Huntington Zoning Board of Appeals has approved parking relief for a mixed-use building with 10 apartments proposed for New York Avenue in Huntington Village.

Larry Weinberger, a real estate director with MGD Investment, got the approval during the board’s Sept. 7 meeting. He had previously proposed a plan for a restaurant and bar with a stage for musical performances, but the board denied it due to parking concerns.

Instead, Weinberger said he’s moving forward with his plan for 7,315 square-foot of retail space on the ground floor and 8-10 apartments across 6,090 square feet on the second floor of 355 New York Ave.

John Farrell, a Uniondale-based attorney who is representing Weinberger, said during the meeting the proposed use for the plan requires 48 spaces, according to town code.

Currently, 61 spaces are required for the approved uses of the building, which has three storefronts on its ground floor, one of which is occupied by Super Runners Shop — the other two are being eyed by new retail tenants, according to Weinberger.

Chris Modelewski, ZBA chairman, acknowledged the reduction in the number of required spaces for the new plan during the hearing

“The use that you are proposing under our code is actually less intensive and requires less parking than what is legal, certificated and existing on the property,” Modelewski said. “In terms of that, we don’t need to do anything… We’re not framed for decision on the matter of parking. It’s simply not before us.”

Weinberger, of Bellmore, said Tuesday, “I think the board saw it as a good plan, but we just got caught up in some fever that was boiling over the parking issues

“There are parking issues, but I think that’s part of the positive aspect of vibrant communities.”

Weinberger added that he’s excited to bring more apartment housing to Huntington village.

The next step is to draw up building plans, he said.

“We’re in no rush and we’re excited to be on our way,” Weinberger said. “It’s a great community and we’re glad to be there as developers.”