Stonebridge Golf Links in Smithtown might have a bigger clubhouse in the near future if an expansion proposed by the club's catering company, Carlyle Stonebridge, is approved next month by the town.
Newsday reported earlier this week that Carlyle, which also operates Carlyle on the Green at Bethpage State Park and several other Long Island catering halls, proposed plans to the development's homeowners that include a 2,600-foot expansion of the clubhouse and increased parking space to attract more weddings and boost business at the facility.
The golf course at Stonebridge wraps tightly around the residential community, especially below the clubhouse, where
backyards and back doors are just steps from the first fairway. Yet most residents are in favor of the proposal, according to Newsday, though some are concerned that an expanded catering business will lead to guest parking on community streets and heightened clubhouse noise.
Carlyle took over the club's catering business in April with an eye toward making Stonebridge more appealing to soon-to-wed couples.
Carlyle officials said the larger business would not be intrusive. "I don't think they'll see any change from what they've had," executive vice president Jay Kranitz said. He said there would be valet parking so catering customers would not park on the narrow roads. — Carl MacGowan, Newsday, 12/24/2012
An approval or rejection of the expansion by the Smithtown Board of Zoning Appeals may come as soon as January 8.