By Joe Rizza

The Winston, the 285-unit, nine-story condominium complex that is expected to be built on Old Country Road between Main Street and Willis Avenue in Mineola, was recognized by Vision Long Island, earning a 2008 Smart Growth Award during a ceremony last week.

The Winston, being built by Polimeni International and owners Vincent and Michael Polimeni, won for the "Encouraging Walkability" category.

The Winston and the concept of transit-oriented development were introduced to the Mineola Board of Trustees, which held public hearings on the proposed development. The proposal received public support as it is seen as an opportunity to provide Mineola with added tax revenue as well as housing near the train station, which will help to revitalize Mineola's downtown area.

In addition, Mineola Mayor Jack M. Martins' negotiations with Polimeni led to the developer providing the village with a 36-unit senior housing complex on Front Street, a three-tier parking garage with 272 parking spaces (40 of which will be dedicated to the village for metered parking), the retrofit of the neighboring Benchmark office building, which Polimeni owns, as well as a $3 million grant to the village for capital projects.

"I think it makes sense for a downtown project where it should be, where the transportation is there, where the people want it. It's the right project and it's what we have to do all over Long Island where it's appropriate," said Vincent Polimeni.

Vision Long Island recognized the Winston in the "Encouraging Walkability" category because of the convenience its location provides. Eventual residents of the condo complex will be able to walk to the Mineola train station for access to New York City as well as restaurants and shops in Mineola's downtown area.

"It's walkability for the downtown area will revitalize downtown. All the small shops there and restaurants will benefit tremendously from this and we have to start walking again," said Vincent Polimeni.

The Village of Mineola Board of Trustees unanimously approved the application for the complex in February. However, the board will be voting on its final decision on the application tonight. The board is expected to unanimously approve the application once again.

According to Mineola Village Attorney John Spellman, the project needs approval from the Nassau County Planning Commission, the Village of Mineola Planning Board and the Village of Garden City Planning Commission.

Vincent Polimeni hopes to have the Winston open in 2010.