The Change of Zone for the Starbucks at the empty bank at 599 MCR was unanimously passed by the TOB at a Public Hearing on October 23, 2025! This is a great re-use of an existing, long vacant but still stately brick building. Many thanks to the Crest Group for working to bring a nationally recognized brand to our Main Street in Middle Island. Thanks to all the Birchwood residents and MI civic members who came out to support this application!!
After years of sitting empty, the bank at 599 Middle Country Road is on the way to finally being occupied — by Starbucks! Brothers Dan and Marco Scarda of The Crest Group raised this possibility at the August 2024 MICA meeting, while explaining their assumption of the Oak Run project from Mark Baisch. A photo of the red brick building with the Starbucks sign above the front entrance was greeted with much applause by the more than 60 members in attendance. Since then, the project has been submitted to the Town of Brookhaven as well as the NYS Pine Barrens Commission for review Supervisor Dan Panico reported that the Commission approved the plan at its July 17, 2025 meeting. Next steps are Change of Zone and Site Plan hearings at TOB — which MICA will support. These are scheduled for Thursday, October 23rd at 5:30pm at Town Hall. The reuse of this existing beautiful brick building is a great example of smart redevelopment. There will be no additional clearing and a revegetation plan featuring native plants will be implemented. Middle Island is excited to have a major brand join our Main Street corridor.
