Source: Long Island Business News, Adina Genn, Aug. 10, 2026 (Original reporting by LIBN; this is a summarized rewrite for republication.)

New York State has awarded $4.1 million in capital funding to the Town of Babylon to advance two major community projects in Wyandanch. The state is directing $3 million toward the creation of the Great Lawn at Wyandanch Rising, and $1.1 million toward upgrades at Wyandanch Park.

The announcement followed Gov. Kathy Hochul’s tour of the newest phase of Wyandanch Village, a mixed‑use affordable housing development built by the Albanese Organization. State officials noted that the area has faced “economic distress and disinvestment” for decades.

Gov. Hochul emphasized the importance of accessible public spaces, stating: “Every New Yorker deserves access to vibrant public spaces where families can gather, children can play and communities can thrive.” She added that the new investments will “create new recreational opportunities and community amenities that will benefit residents for many years to come.”

The Dormitory Authority of the State of New York will administer the funding. The planned Great Lawn will span more than one acre and include a dog park, playground, and community garden. Improvements at Wyandanch Park will focus on renovating playing fields used by local sports teams and families.

Chris Albanese, President of the Albanese Organization, described the redevelopment effort as central to strengthening community connections: “The Wyandanch Rising redevelopment is about creating a stronger, more connected community, and investments in high‑quality public spaces are an important part of that vision.” He credited the state, Suffolk County, and the Town of Babylon for their partnership, noting that the Great Lawn will offer “new opportunities to gather, play and enjoy the outdoors.”

Town of Babylon Supervisor Rich Schaffer highlighted the importance of sustained investment: “Transforming a community isn’t about a single project. It’s about sustained investment and a shared commitment to the people who live there.”

Assemblymember Kwani O’Pharrow added that the improvements will “enhance quality of life, create more opportunities for families and youth and strengthen our community for generations to come.” State Sen. Monica Martinez summarized the significance of the funding: “This $4.1 million in funding from New York State for projects within the Town of Babylon supports the locally driven improvements our community has long wanted to see.”