Public Hearing on Bowling Alley Sign Postponed

A public hearing scheduled for Thursday night meant to allow residents to air their concerns about a proposed new sign for outside the All Star bowling alley was postponed.

The meeting was tabled to August 22 so the architectural review board can review drawing changes, which the zoning board of appeals requested. 

“It’s gratifying to learn the ZBA has involved the architectural review board; that’s one of the steps Save Main Road advocated," said Larry Simms of the "Save Main Road" group. "However, it’s disconcerting that the postponement wasn’t announced in advance. The hearing two weeks ago was held over expressly to allow local residents the opportunity to be heard, and many came tonight to speak. Members of the public are not paid to attend hearings, and for some it’s difficult to get to Town Hall."

He added, "Nothing discourages public participation more effectively than requiring folks to keep coming back, never knowing when they’ll get the chance to put their comments on the record. Since the ZBA wants to encourage such participation, we suggest they open all hearings on the agenda for public comment, even if the rest of the proceedings must be tabled. There’s no downside, and constituents deserve this opportunity and respect."

The "Save Main Road" group has been speaking out in recent weeks about the proposed 96 square foot sign pitched by the All Star bowling alley in Riverhead.

The sign, said Simms of Save Main Road, is "three times the maximum size allowed. In the context of its Main Road setting, the 96 square foot structure sought would be a billboard, not a sign."

Initially, the original application was for "a very different sign," Simms said, one that was internally illuminated and animated, but that application was withdrawn before any hearings were held.  

The application, filed by Main Street Holdings for The All Star, located at 96 Main Road in Riverhead, seeks a variance to and/or relief from the provisions of the town code regarding signs.

At a public hearing held on July 11 — which was left open and held over until July 25 – Simms said All Star owner Jeffrey Rimland said he needed the larger sign because individuals did not know the property was a bowling alley, due to the look of the structure, name of the business, and existing signage.

No All Star owners have returned calls for comment.