Packard School to be Knocked Down

Sylvia Packard Middle School is finally going to be knocked down.

The Oyster Bay Town Board passed a resolution Tuesday approving Gramercy Group Incorporated, as the contractor for the demolition.

Asbestos abatement is expected to begin on the site after Labor Day, with demolition is expected to commence by late fall.

The Plainedge School District will be putting up an athletic facility, and erecting new ball fields.

The former middle school has been vacant for several years now. 

 “The District was extremely pleased when our community residents approved the sale of the Packard property in late June 2009,” said Plainedge Schools Superintendent Christine P’Simer. “As the District still retains a portion of the property, we wish to assure residents that we are working in collaboration with the Town of Oyster Bay to ensure all necessary safety precautions are taken.”

"This is a great for the town," said Oyster Bay town spokeswoman Marta Kane. "The kids will finally have a beautiful new place to spend time."

The Board also decided Tuesday to reserve decision in regards to a hearing  they held about property located on 50 Sunrise Highway.

The property owners wish to use the premises for outdoor motor vehicle and truck sales.

Gerald Simon, representing Carlyle Management Corp, voiced some concerns at the hearing  about the proposal, and the effects it may have on neighboring businesses.

"We're just concerned that this area is going to be properly maintained," Simon said. "We also are hoping that this does not become a place for repairs and parts."

Alan M. Stein, who represents the property owner, says that his clients have already put in motion plans for improvement.

"They are erecting a new fence, and there is also going to be new shrubbery," Stein said. "The site needed a significant amount of remediation."

In reference to the concern about the property becoming a place for repairs and parts, Supervisor John Venditto said a "Covenant of Restrictions," which could keep the property from being used  in that manner, will likely become part of the ultimate grant in this case.

"I urge the two of you to work together to find a common ground," Venditto said. "But ultimately, this plan would seem like a welcomed improvement."

There was no timetable set by the board as to when a vote might come .