A long-awaited restoration of the Wading River Duck Ponds is moving forward after Town of Brookhaven officials approved $850,000 toward the project, which aims to improve water quality and revitalize the community landmark shared by Brookhaven and Riverhead.

Brookhaven Town Highway Superintendent Daniel Losquadro (R) announced the funding Tuesday, Oct. 27, alongside Riverhead Town Councilman Ken Rothwell (R) and Brookhaven Town Councilwoman Jane Bonner (R-Rocky Point). The project will include dredging, stormwater improvements and the replacement of failing bulkheads, along with broader beautification efforts.

The ponds have deteriorated over the years due to environmental conditions and sediment buildup. Losquadro said Brookhaven previously completed a drainage project at the western end of the ponds, but additional work is needed to address the remaining problems.

“Without funding, it’s just an idea,” Losquadro said, noting that the Town Board and Supervisor Dan Panico (R) approved Brookhaven’s $850,000 share at a recent meeting.

The town has also committed nearly $80,000 for engineering through M&J Engineering. Riverhead will reimburse Brookhaven for half of the engineering costs, with the two municipalities coordinating the work. Replacing the bulkheads under Riverhead’s jurisdiction is a necessary first step before heavy equipment can be brought in to dredge the ponds, Losquadro said.

Rothwell said he moved to Wading River because of its natural beauty and has watched the ponds decline over the years. He credited cooperation between the two towns, along with support from the Wading River Civic Association, for helping advance the project.