A large turnout is expected in opposition to the proposed construction of a 270-300-unit super-high density luxury rental complex in Oyster Bay, proposed by mega-developer AvalonBay Communities, Inc. AvalonBay has proposed the complex for a site not currently zoned for such use and is seeking nearly three and a half to four times the town's maximum permitted density.

The Protest March, planned for Sunday, May 21, at 2 p.m., was organized by a coalition of community groups, including the Coalition to Stop Avalon; East Norwich Civic Association; and Friends of the Bay. The rain date is Saturday, June 3.

The community cites numerous issues in opposition to the proposed complex, including irreversible damage to the Oyster Bay Wildlife Refuge (cited among the top 10 refuges at risk), as well as the precedent it will set for similar unsustainable growth, increased taxes, overcrowded classrooms, overburdened wastewater systems, jammed roads and parking lots, and a radical change to the quality of life in Oyster Bay and East Norwich.

With 43 percent of the housing in the hamlet of Oyster Bay as rentals, the hamlet far exceeds the percentage of other towns and counties cited by AvalonBay.

People who wish to demonstrate their concerns about the AvalonBay proposals, are asked to meet outside of the Oyster Bay Community Center located in the parking lot behind Townsend Square, on South Street. The march will conclude at the bandstand in Townsend Park located in front of Town Hall West and the Oyster Bay Post Office. Speakers at the event include Oyster Bay resident Cat Colvin and East Norwich Civic Association President Matt Meng and Friends of the Bay Executive Director Kyle Rabin.

You may visit the respective websites for the East Norwich Civic Association and Friends of the Bay to view information about AvalonBay's proposed apartment complex and to get a copy of the four page brochure detailing the community's opposition to it: www.eastnorwich.org and www.friendsofthebay.org.