Ground has yet to be broken in Holtsville for what would be Long Island's first Topgolf facility, but representatives from the Dallas-based company have already received a traditional Long Island welcome from area residents who spoke out against the development at a Brookhaven Town public hearing on Monday.
Citing loud music, lights and the potential for increased traffic and drunk driving in the area, Holtsville residents asked the board to oppose the new facility, which would be located north of the Long Island Expressway at exit 62, according to Newsday. Topgolf is known nationwide for its driving ranges that mix high-tech features, modern amenities, dining and nightlife.
Topgolf officials argued that the $25 million facility would create up to 500 jobs and comply with all town laws, though residents were skeptical of the range's use of music and lights late into the night.
Opponents of the project threw up their hands in apparent exasperation during the hearing as Topgolf officials tried to assure them that their lifestyles would not be disrupted by the business.
Mike Quilty described a recent vacation trip with his wife Mary during which they saw a Topgolf site with blaring music and bright lights.
"When we saw the Topgolf in South Carolina, I said, Oh, my God, it is in your face," Quilty said. "I said, wow, this is going to be in my neighborhood? I can't believe this."
Other residents expressed concern about Topgolf customers driving drunk as they leave the facility, which would be open until 2 a.m. on weekends. -- Carl MacGowan, Newsday, 8/20/2019
Back in December 2017, the Brookhaven Town board unanimously approved special permits and zoning changes to make way for Long Island's first Topgolf. At the time, proponents cited Topgolf's entertainment value while residents complained that disruption from the site could devalue their homes.
Unlike standard driving ranges, Topgolf features microchipped golf balls and arcade-style target areas for computer-scored games and contests, as well as dining and lounge-style amenities that appeal to non-golfers. Climate-controlled hitting bays are rented by the hour and typically include televisions, WiFi and access to food and drinks. Standard range features like lessons and clinics are also included. Currently, the closest Topgolf facility to Long Island is located in Edison, New Jersey (pictured).
Brookhaven's planning board deferred a decision until its next meeting on September 16.
For more, see previous GOLI posts on the proposed Topgolf:
Plans in place to bring Long Island's first Topgolf location to Holtsville (12/23/2017)
No updates on planned Topgolf facility in Holtsville (12/20/2018)
[Photo courtesy of Topgolf]
