It’s March 2nd and with only 18 days until Spring, things in the Pines are starting to emerge from a cold, snowy winter. Two glorious signs of an approaching Spring at the beach are the resumption of curb-side garbage pickup and daily ferry service!

First, garbage service – as our Winter residents and occasional visitors may already be aware, effective January 1^st, a new contractor, Brownie Companies Carting Division, assumed garbage collection in the Pines. Garbage collection in the Pines is determined by the Town of Brookhaven, and after decades of service, Tony’s Barge elected not to bid on the new garbage contract with Brookhaven. We thank Tommy Esposito and his team for many years of service to the community, and we welcome Jeremy Brownie and his new team.  You may notice that Brownie is using electric carts to collect and haul garbage on the boardwalks, thereby improving both the environment impact and noise while working in the community.

You will find Brownie’s collection schedule and pick-up guidelines here, which are essentially identical as last year. You will also find contact information for customer service, should you have any questions.

Second, daily ferry service resumes Monday, March 15^th, with the Early Spring schedule. Please note that this schedule does not have a predetermined termination date. As the weeks progress and ridership increases, Sayville Ferry has indicated they will continue to add boats so please check the SFS website for updates.

I am looking forward to seeing everyone soon,

Henry