Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What is the Heritage Trust? Heritage Center

A. The Mt. Sinai Heritage Trust, Inc. is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit community land trust organization. It was formed to help develop the North Shore Heritage Park, build and run a community center, and promote wise use of natural resources.

Q. When will the park be completed?

A. The ball fields and amphitheater areas are constructed and available for scheduled use spring of 2005. Construction of the Heritage Center will begin April 2005--Targeted opening – December 2005.

Q. Who owns or runs the Central Park?

A. This is complex. The Heritage Trust owns a shy 1 acre of the "wedge." Suffolk County acquired the northern 17.4 acres of the "Wedge." Brookhaven Town will develop ball fields, trails, and parking on County owned land. The Trust will build a Heritage Center on the land it owns, and a playground, amphitheater, memorial knoll and landscaping on the county property . The Town and Trust will be the primary partners in managing the park.

Q. Who will use the park?

A. The park will provide a Town Center by people from the surrounding communities. Suffolk County acquired the land for all Suffolk County residents to enjoy.

Q. What is the Heritage Center?

A. The Heritage Center will be a public community center that will be adjacent to the recreational areas of the park. Community events, programs and gatherings will be held in the Center. The Center is the responsibility of the Trust.

Q. What will be in the recreational area of the Central Park?

A. The recreational area of the park will have an amphitheater, 3 ball fields, memorial gardens, multi-use paths and a playground. These elements will help create a multi-generational park atmosphere unlike other facilities in the area.

Q. Why was the Mt. Sinai Heritage Trust formed?

A. The Mt. Sinai Civic Association worked to preserve the "wedge" and encourage a multi-use park. When the creation of the park required a community/municipal partnership, the non-profit Heritage Trust was established. This created a responsible organization that could enter into agreements to partner with government to create and manage the North Shore Heritage Park.

Q. Who runs the Mt. Sinai Heritage Trust?

A. At the present time the Trust is administered by seven volunteer directors. There are several volunteer advisors to the Trust including expertise in accounting, legal, finance, and construction. Committees are headed by dedicated community volunteers. As the Trust matures, additional directors will become part of the administrative team.

Q. How is the Trust funded?

A. The Trust raises money through grants and donations. Senator Ken LaValle and Assemblyman Steve Englebright have assisted the Trust in capital funds to build phase I of the Heritage Community Center. Foundation grants and community contributions will assist the Trust to grow and develop to fulfill its mission.

Q. How will the amphitheater be used?

A. Community groups who wish to sponsor music and theatrical programs, local art and video displays during the year may choose the amphitheater in the summer in conjunction with the Heritage Center.

Q. How will the ball fields be managed?

A. The Town of Brookhaven will schedule and maintain the ball fields.

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