After much controversy, an additional New York Institute of Technology residence hall officially opened its doors to students this semester. The building, located at 120 Jericho Turnpike, was vacant four years before the dormitory opened.
Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino said the building is an “ideal choice for a student dormitory.” He said the amenities will provide a comfortable environment for local students.
The building was previously a Hampton Inn hotel, which closed in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. After its closing, former County Executive Laura Curran proposed turning it into a homeless shelter.
The proposed shelter upset residents and town officials. The town board partnered with civic groups, which were upset by its proximity to schools.
“The proposal also ignored local zoning laws which prevent such a facility at that location,” Saladino said.
After taking the matter to the New York State Supreme Court, the plan was rejected.
“The Oyster Bay Town Board and I joined with local civic and parent groups, as well as school board members in opposition to these plans,” Saladino said. “We took our fight to the New York State Supreme Court and won, successfully ending the project while enforcing local zoning laws.”
The new dormitories accommodate almost 200 students and feature a pool, fitness center and laundry room.
NYIT president Henry Foley said the new residence was designed to cater to every aspect of student life.
“Our Jericho residence hall is specifically designed to surround our students with the best environments that balance their academic, social and personal wellness,” he said in a press release.
There are common spaces where students can socialize and meet peers as well.
“This development isn’t just about providing housing – it’s about creating a supportive environment that enhances the educational experience and fosters community,” said Michael F. Puntillo, managing partner of PX4 Development, which constructed the new housing.
A shuttle is available to take students to campus, which is approximately 15 minutes of travel time.
“As an alumni of NYIT, I know that student housing is critical,” Saladino said.
Saladino said the school’s new dormitory will help draw more students to the school and area.
“These student residences will help attract and house more academically-driven, young students to this school and our community, who may have otherwise not considered NYIT due to long commutes and limited housing,” he said.
Foley said that the new dormitories align with NYIT’s goal to provide the best experience possible for students.
“One of New York Tech’s top priorities is to provide the best student experiences possible, and these new facilities are another example of how we strive to support them both inside and outside the classroom,” Foley said.
The building was officially opened to students on Aug. 31.
“Seeing our vision come to life with students enjoying their new home is incredibly rewarding,” Puntillo said.
Saladino said that the residence hall is a positive contribution to the town, especially after the controversy surrounding the lot.
“What once laid abandoned and shuttered, with plans which would have led to a strain on our school districts, public safety, and infrastructure, now stands as a highpoint in the Town of Oyster Bay,” he said.
