Mixed-Use Development Approved at 75 Maxess Road Sparks Excitement—and Concern
Melville is on the brink of a major transformation. In a decisive 4–1 vote on April 14, 2026, the Town of Huntington Board approved a $130 million mixed-use development at 75 Maxess Road—ushering in what could become one of Long Island’s most modern, walkable community hubs.
Blending residential living with retail, dining, and outdoor amenities, the project aims to redefine how people live, work, and gather in the area. But as with any large-scale development, the excitement is being met with a fair share of concern from local residents.
What’s Being Built
The approved development will convert a site previously slated for an Amazon warehouse into a vibrant, multi-use destination designed for convenience and community connection.
Plans include approximately 400 residential units, made up of 290 rental apartments, 110 condominiums, and 40 live/work spaces. The design features a mix of building styles, including seven four-story buildings, four three-story buildings, and three one-story retail structures.
Beyond housing, the project will introduce over 37,000 square feet of commercial space, bringing in restaurants and retail options that aim to create a lively, everyday destination for both residents and visitors.
A Focus on Community Living
At its core, the development is designed to foster a lifestyle centered around walkability and shared experiences. Plans include a 6,300-square-foot clubhouse, a public plaza, a promenade, and scenic walking trails.
These features are intended to encourage residents to spend more time outdoors, connect with neighbors, and enjoy a built-in sense of community—something increasingly in demand across Long Island.
Additionally, 20% of the housing units will be designated as affordable and workforce housing, offering opportunities for a broader range of residents to call Melville home.
A New Kind of Long Island Hub
This project represents a growing trend across Long Island: the shift toward “lifestyle” developments that combine living, dining, and recreation in one centralized location.
Often compared to mini downtown districts, these developments aim to reduce the need for constant driving while creating a more immersive, neighborhood-style experience. For some, it signals a long-overdue evolution in suburban living.
Community Concerns and Pushback
Despite the vision, not everyone is on board. Local residents and members of the Half Hollow Hills School District have voiced concerns about the potential strain the development could place on the area.
Key issues include increased traffic, overcrowding in local schools, and added pressure on infrastructure such as water and energy systems. These concerns were significant enough to spark opposition during the approval process, highlighting the ongoing balancing act between growth and preservation.
What Happens Next
While the project has been approved, construction has not yet begun. Once underway, it is expected to take approximately 18 to 24 months to complete.
As the timeline unfolds, residents and stakeholders will be watching closely to see how the development progresses—and whether it delivers on its promise of a modern, community-driven living experience.
Melville is Changing
The transformation of 75 Maxess Road marks a pivotal moment for Melville and Long Island as a whole. With its blend of housing, dining, and lifestyle amenities, the project has the potential to reshape the local landscape and introduce a new way of living to the region.
At the same time, it raises important questions about growth, infrastructure, and the future of suburban communities.
Whether viewed as an exciting evolution or a cause for concern, one thing is certain—Melville is changing. And as this ambitious project moves forward, it will undoubtedly become a focal point of conversation for residents across Long Island.
