East End Arts reimagined: plans unveiled for redesigned campus

East End Arts and Humanities Council has revealed conceptual plans to modernize its historic campus on East Main Street in downtown Riverhead, integrating it with the ongoing Town Square redevelopment. The project includes repositioning and elevating two key buildings—the pre-1870 Benjamin House and the 1840s Davis Corwin House—to align with the sidewalk and protect against future flooding. Both structures are listed on the National Register of Historic Preservation and within the Downtown Riverhead Historic District. Adjacent buildings, including the carriage house, 1821 Fresh Pond schoolhouse, and barn, will also be elevated as part of broader flood mitigation efforts. The carriage house will rotate 180 degrees and relocate behind the Benjamin House, while the barn will move behind the Corwin House. The schoolhouse will shift eastward, away from the Peconic River. These adjustments aim to enhance accessibility, visibility, and connectivity across the campus. The redesign will create ADA-compliant pathways between buildings, expanded landscaped gardens, and outdoor gathering spaces, with plans for a potential amphitheater in the southern section. An open pavilion will be added to host exhibitions and events, and an elevator will connect the Benjamin House to the carriage house to improve accessibility. The Corwin House may also expand further south if feasible. Executive Director Wendy Weiss emphasized the project’s focus on preserving the campus’s historical character while transforming it into a vibrant cultural hub. The layout will maintain open space between the Corwin and Benjamin Houses, mirroring a college campus atmosphere. The Town Board approved the plans as part of the $32.6 million Town Square redevelopment, which includes nearby developments like the J. Petrocelli hotel-condominium and Heatherwood project.