Waterfront Improvements Underway in East Moriches

Construction is underway at the Maple Avenue Dock, a popular gathering place for residents who enjoy fishing, crabbing, watching wildlife, and taking in spectacular sunsets and moonrises over Moriches Bay.

The waterfront landmark, offering sweeping views of Hart Cove, Moriches Bay, and Fire Island, is undergoing a $541,000 improvement project approved by the Brookhaven Town Board earlier this year.

“Maple Avenue Dock gives residents of the greater Moriches area a great place to access the water,” said Brookhaven Supervisor Dan Panico. “Years of exposure to the elements take a toll, and I’m glad these much-needed repairs are moving forward. I thank Commissioner Morris and our Parks Department for making this project a priority.”

The project includes replacing the dock’s aging bulkhead, along with improvements to surrounding pavement, sidewalks, and other waterfront infrastructure, Panico noted.

The Town Board unanimously approved the contract, awarding the work to Atlantic Coast Dock Construction Corp. of Mastic Beach, the lowest responsible bidder following a competitive bidding process.

The contract, totaling up to $541,339.25, includes the main bulkhead replacement and additional work involving asphalt concrete, timber guide rails, cement concrete sidewalks, and driveways.

Bulkheads play an essential role in protecting waterfront properties and public facilities from shoreline erosion and deterioration caused by tides, wave action, and changing water conditions, town officials said. Replacing the structure will help preserve the dock and surrounding public infrastructure.

For generations, the Maple Avenue waterfront has served as a destination for local families, anglers, and visitors looking to enjoy the natural beauty of the Moriches Bay shoreline.

The dock is particularly popular during warmer months, when residents gather to fish and crab or simply relax while watching boats travel through the bay. Its unobstructed waterfront views also make it a favored location for observing shorebirds, other wildlife, and the changing colors of the evening sky.

The improvements represent an investment in preserving one of the community’s most accessible waterfront attractions for future generations.