Construction of New 24-Hour Laundromat Halted For Now

The construction of a new 24-hour laundromat at 460 Union Boulevard was halted because of improper town permits, according to Suffolk Legislator Thomas Barraga.

Barraga said the laundromat--which is being built where Blockbuster used to stand--did not have the proper permits required to begin construction. 

“We have received a number of calls from individuals who had concerns about the laundromat,” Barraga said.

According to the county legislator, in order for the laundromat to open, the owners need a Change of Use Permit from Islip Town. Barraga noted the application was submited but had not yet been approved.

"They had no right to do any construction inside that site in terms of plumbing or anything else, which they proceeded to do," he added. “Right now, they are in violation of the town law because they have not received approval of the Change in Use application."

Barraga said he notified the town and a stop-work order was issued. Islip Town officials did not immediately return phone calls from Patch for comment. 

He also noted that if residents have a reasonable objection to a 24-hour laundromat being built at that location, that they should contact the Town of Islip Building Division.

“The ball is in their court,” Barraga said. “It’s up to them [residents].  So those complaining have to do more than just complaining, they have to go down and voice their objections."

He continued, "I don’t like any 24-hour a day operations, I really don’t.  And I’m not so sure that area, personally, is an appropriate place for a Laundromat."

Employees at businesses in the shopping center that could house the 24-laundromat had mixed feelings on the possible new business.

"It’s probably going to help," said Cara Ponticello, manager of shop right next door.  “I assume so. But I’m just more afraid of the creepy people hanging out in front of it at night and the girls that work here.”

Stan Mancavage, manager of , said he thought the laundromat was better than having the property vacant.

"It's empty now, so if something is built there I could see it helping our business," he said.

Patch is currently compiling resident reactions for a story to be published later this week.  Email A.J. Voelpel at anthonyv@path.com to share your thoughts.