Dedicated to the memory of the late New York State Senator Norman J. Levy, a Merrick resident and a champion for the environment, Levy Park and Preserve opened to the public on Oct. 22, 2000. This award winning Town of Hempstead preserve serves as a plant and wildlife sanctuary, as well as a tranquil respite for residents.
The conversion of the former Merrick Landfill into the Norman J. Levy Park and Preserve not only epitomizes the town's commitment to environmental conservation, but saved Hempstead Town taxpayers more than $42 million. The innovative $15 million park plan is substantially less expensive than the $57 million capping and closure plan originally required of the town by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.
Located alongside the Meadowbrook Parkway, the park and preserve's most visible symbol is the fully operational agricultural windmill (situated on the north side of the facility), which is used to circulate the water in two man-made ponds that provides a fresh-water habitat for wildlife. An exciting feature of the park is the kayak launch into the original Meadow Brook. The site also includes three miles of hiking and jogging trails with 18 exercise stations along the trails.
The preserve's highest point of 115 feet produces tremendous views of the Jones Beach Tower, the New York City skyline and numerous coastal treasures.
The 52-acre facility also features a 500-foot fishing pier into Merrick Bay. The pier's decking is constructed of Cumaru, a hardwood from Peru. This extremely durable wood is harvested in an environmentally friendly manner. In addition to its aesthetic qualities, Cumaru is very strong, resists splintering and contains no preservatives. The handicapped accessible fishing pier provides a great opportunity to try your luck at catching the various fish that fill Merrick Bay each season.
In places where disturbance of nature was necessary to cap the landfill, the Town of Hempstead developed woodland and prairie plant communities, similar to the Hempstead Plains, to attract different types of birds. Black locust, poplar, white birch and red cedar are among the types of trees you will find at Levy Park and Preserve. Additionally, wildlife such as turtles, snakes and foxes are thriving.
A tour of this innovative preserve and recreational facility is a terrific educational experience for school children, scouts and adult groups as well. Tours begin with an orientation at the park's outdoor amphitheatre, which seats over 100 people. The groups learn about the evolution of this 52-acre park and view various types of birds, the Meadow Brook, marshes, the different types of trees, birds and other wildlife. Jitneys are available upon request to transport the physically challenged, elderly and other visitors around the facility. The jitneys will travel the preserve from the parking lot to the plateau. Call to arrange for a group tour or for more information.