A new project at the Enterprise Park at Calverton (EPCAL) is drawing attention as a developer seeks approval to move forward with a satellite earth station that utilizes Starlink technology. Located on Burman Boulevard, the fenced-in facility already includes 20 satellite antennas and related infrastructure that were built before Riverhead adopted a local law requiring special permits for such stations. The developer is now seeking authorization to complete the project, which would ultimately feature 40 antennas within the compound.
The half-finished facility is designed to support Starlink, a satellite constellation system created to expand internet access worldwide, especially for underserved rural areas like Calverton. Starlink’s mission is to provide consistent, high-speed connectivity where traditional broadband infrastructure is limited or unavailable. Riverhead officials reviewed the project’s compliance with safety and environmental standards and noted that a radiation hazard analysis found no unacceptable risk from the station’s operations.
Because the facility is tucked away in a low-impact section of EPCAL and not visible from publicly accessible areas, it has been described as minimally intrusive. Town planners also noted that most of the compliance standards have been met, though the applicant has requested a waiver on vegetation screening requirements. The site plan review raised no concerns from the town engineer or fire marshal, and the planning department has prepared a resolution for the Town Board to issue a negative SEQR declaration, a step that clears the way for scheduling a public hearing.
If approved, the project would further strengthen Riverhead’s role in supporting advanced communications infrastructure. Beyond the local benefits of reliable connectivity, the earth station at EPCAL contributes to a global network helping to bridge the digital divide. With the potential to serve hard-to-reach communities and align with broader technological advancements, the project underscores how even quiet corners of Long Island are becoming part of a rapidly changing digital landscape.
