Callahan's Beach Of Fort Salonga Reopens After Seawall Collapse

FORT SALONGA, NY — Callahan’s Beach has reopened to Smithtown residents, the town announced.

The seawall collapsed because of damage from Tropical Depression Ida and a second storm, prompting a need for major infrastructure repairs, according to the town. All new drainage infrastructure was installed, and the seawall was totally reconstructed. The stairs were rebuilt, with platforms in between stories. The bluff had to be completely rehabilitated and features rows of plantings. All new walkways, curbing, and asphalt have also been paved.

"Callahan's is absolutely stunning," Smithtown Supervisor Ed Wehrheim said in a news release. "People have been walking the beach and commenting all day about how gorgeous of a job the town did."

Wehrheim thanked the Smithtown Parks Department; Jim Longworth; Pioneer Asphalt; Hayduk Engineering; and the Smithtown Department of Environment and Waterways. All worked with the Department of Environmental Conservation to get the permit process moving.

"This was a massive undertaking," Wehrheim said. "One that was met with obstacles like supply chain issues, and red tape. However, the incredible amount of teamwork involved solidified a beautiful end result ... one that Smithtown residents will enjoy for years to come."

The facility will remain open to the public, while the Smithtown Parks Department will begin constructing a new playground and pickle ball courts at Callahan's Beach. Construction work on the playground and pickle ball areas will be contained so that public access will not be interrupted.