Ronkonkoma, a small town in New York known for its rural charm, is undergoing a major transformation with the implementation of the Ronkonkoma Hub project. This $650 million initiative, announced by Governor Cuomo in 2017, aims to build a transit hub and mixed-use development that will bring new housing, jobs, and economic growth to the area.
The project, spanning 53 acres, will feature 1,450 residential units, 360,000 square feet of commercial space, and nearly 200,000 square feet of retail. This represents a significant increase in density for Ronkonkoma, which has traditionally been a low-rise, suburban community. While some locals have expressed concerns about the impact on the neighborhood’s character and existing infrastructure, others see it as an opportunity to revitalize the area and attract younger residents who prefer walkable, mixed-use communities.
Tritec, a family-owned developer based in Ronkonkoma, was chosen to lead the project. They worked closely with city officials to ensure compliance with building and zoning codes, despite the challenge of limited municipal sewage infrastructure in Suffolk County. To overcome this constraint, the developers invested $55 million in designing and constructing seven miles of sewage pipes and a pump station to connect to a nearby treatment plant.
The first phase of construction focused on parking for the transit center, benefiting the community as a whole. However, the project faced opposition and legal challenges, with seven lawsuits filed against it over an eight-year period. Tritec persevered, emphasizing that the development would create a new downtown rather than competing with existing businesses.
Despite initial opposition, Tritec worked closely with the community to ensure that the development would benefit local businesses. They prioritized sourcing retail tenants from the local community, avoiding chain stores entirely. Recognizing the importance of creating a vibrant social space, Tritec established an events team to organize over 50 events, including farmers markets, holiday markets, and concerts. They also collaborated with local school districts, involving students in various ways, such as performances by the school band and construction site tours for wood and metal shop classes.
The Ronkonkoma Hub project is a transformative endeavor for the town. Rather than replacing the historic city center, Tritec aimed to create a synergistic relationship with existing businesses and landlords. Through collaboration with town leaders and the community, Tritec successfully brought this mutually beneficial and profitable project to life.
