Few buildings of old Kings Park psychiatric center site to go

Now it’s the turn of old Kings Park psychiatric center site and it will get demolished, as stated by the latest decision of the pertinent authority. Well, this project has gained the approval of the government along with the civic leaders since it is regarded as a stumbling block in this part of the city. The Kings Park Psychiatric Center is a former state-run psychiatric hospital located in Kings Park, New York. It operated from 1885 until 1996, when the State of New York closed the facility down, either releasing its few remaining patients or transferring them to the still-operational Pilgrim Psychiatric Center.

What will happen to the part of Nissequogue River State Park then? Will it stay in the same position? Well, no specific decision has come to the forefront so far, in this regard. On the contrary Parks Commissioner Carol Ash has stated that the state needs to know “what it is we’re in for” regarding cleanup costs. It is to be noted that the land site is unhygienic with asbestos and lead, among other hazards.

It has been learnt that the Woodbury-based engineering firm of Dvirka and Bartilucci will start out a $3.6-million environmental study of the 518-acre site next month. However, it has been found, that in all probability the project of demolition won’t begin for at least a year. Both projects will be funded by $29 million already secured by state Sen. John Flanagan (R-East Northport).

Why were the 14 buildings (to be demolished) were selected? Nevertheless, before the final selection there were lots of deliberations on several factors. This included whether they would be essential to the park’s future needs, in addition to safety concerns regarding their deteriorating conditions. It has been decided that smokestacks, tanks and a salt shed will be demolished, with crumbling roads and parking areas. A steam tunnel system also may be demolished.

“My only disappointment is that we haven’t gotten a firm, public long-term commitment to keep it as a park,” Flanagan said. “But I do believe that if we find the money, the commissioner will do everything possible to make this the best park available.”