Riverhead Town intends to take the proposed building for the Long Island Science Center "using eminent domain, and sell or lease the property to a developer with the condition that the building be demolished and the property used within the goals of its downtown revitalization plans, according to a document prepared by the town in December for the environmental review of the action. The sale to a developer could result in a large-scale mixed-use building like the condominium/hotel proposed for the other side of the town square, according to the document." (L.I. Science Center: Town is obstructing museum plans, as Riverhead inches closer to taking Main Street building )

The dream of my eight year old daughter is to grow up to be an engineer. She would love to have more opportunity to access adequate educational materials, larger maker spaces, and more frequent after school programs at the Long Island Science Center. She is one of thousands of kids on Long Island who have a deep passion for science.  A 2016 study by the AmGen Foundation and Change the Equation found that 81% of teens are interested in science. The current leased building for the LISC cannot accommodate the size and demand of children looking to access those amenities.

The Long Island Science Center currently holds the rights to the new property and is willing to use their funds to execute their vision. There is no reason the Riverhead Town Board should be inhibiting the process of executing their vision, as the LISC is applying for proper permits and willing to take the necessary steps to comply. 

This is a plea to the Riverhead Town Board and Councilman Kenneth Rothwell to choose kids over condos. Invest in the future of this beautiful, vibrant town by investing in the children of this town. Allow the children access to scientific materials and educational opportunities that could one day set them up for success as an adult to find local science-based jobs at facilities such as Brookhaven Lab.

We hope by signing this petition and showing the Riverhead Town Board that the majority of local citizens value the future of our children and our local economy, and we hope that the Riverhead Town Board will support and work with the Long Island Science Center in their ambitions rather than opposing them. 

The Riverhead Town Board hopes to break ground on the Town Square Proposal in 2025, LISC has voiced that they are willing and able to accomplish their renovations to the new Science Center in 2025 as well. Please come together to show the Riverhead Town Board that we, the community, support the Long Island Science Center in their goal to renovate and open a brand new educational space for the children of our community. We hope that the Riverhead Town Board will also support the Long Island Science Center in their long awaited dream project. Choose kids over condos. The children are counting on us to speak on their behalf.  Thank you.