The Town of East Hampton is moving forward with its Sustainable Planning in Coastal Communities: Risk Reduction, Revitalization and Restoration (SPCC) initiative, a comprehensive effort to revitalize the Montauk business district. The town’s Request for Proposal (RFP) Selection Committee recommended contracting with JLP+D to lead the project. The Town Board approved this work on September 29.
Funded through a $600,000 Local Waterfront Revitalization Program grant from the New York State Department of State under Title 11 of the Environmental Protection Fund, the project will bring together community members, local businesses, and technical experts to develop implementable options for zoning and building code updates, strategies to reduce climate risk and coastal hazards, and approaches to restore and protect natural resources vital to Montauk’s economy and quality of life.
“Montauk is more than a summer destination. It is a year-round community where people live, work, and raise their families,” said Town Supervisor Kathee Burke-Gonzalez. “This project gives us an opportunity to plan together for a strong and vibrant future. By listening to residents, supporting local businesses, and protecting the character and natural beauty of Montauk, we can make sure it continues to thrive for generations to come.”
“The Local Waterfront Revitalization Program is about more than funding – it’s about empowering communities to chart their own future,” said Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley. “By working hand in hand with residents, local businesses and environmental partners, East Hampton is taking important steps to strengthen Montauk’s resilience, protect its coastline, safeguard its natural resources and preserve the character that makes this community such a special place for residents and visitors alike.”
“Here in Montauk, we can already see the ways climate change is shaping our coast and our community. This project gives us an opportunity to come together and plan in a way that protects both our environment and the people who depend on it every day. It means finding smart, practical solutions that keep our downtown thriving, support local businesses, and safeguard the natural places we all enjoy. This is about making thoughtful choices now so Montauk remains strong, welcoming, and sustainable for years to come,” said Deputy Town Supervisor Cate Rogers.
The Sustainable Planning in Coastal Communities project builds on prior planning efforts, including the Town’s Comprehensive Plan, Local Waterfront Revitalization Plan, and Coastal Assessment and Resilience Plan. It also incorporates insights from the Nature Conservancy’s Montauk Business Community Consensus Building Project, which underscored the importance of including the business community in resilience planning and broadening strategies to address both environmental and economic challenges.
The Selection Committee, composed of Town staff, representatives of partner organizations including Alison Branco, PhD, director of climate adaptation at The Nature Conservancy New York, Montauk Chamber of Commerce President Leo Daunt, and local leaders like Jennifer Carney Iacono, reviewed proposals and conducted interviews before recommending JLP+D. The firm was chosen for its relevant experience in Montauk, proven record of advancing community-supported projects, and expertise in resilient zoning and land use tools.
“The Montauk Chamber of Commerce is excited to be part of this community-led effort with the Town through the SPCC grant process to envision a more environmentally and economically resilient downtown,” said Daunt. “We fully support the selection of JLP+D, whose previous work with local partners was not only well managed but also demonstrated an exceptional ability to work with the community.”
“As a longtime year-round Montauk resident, I was proud to serve on the Town’s sustainable planning advisory committee. JLP+D’s proposal stood out for their community-focused approach and strong grasp of Montauk’s need for environmental and economic resilience,” added Iacono.
“We look forward to working with the highly skilled team selected to work with local businesses and the community to create an action plan that safeguards a vibrant future for Montauk,” Branco said.