Proposed 'East Hampton Bar Car' draws praise and a petition over safety and character

Long Island Railroad has leased the East Hampton train station waiting room to local entrepreneur Holden Rosen, who plans to open the East Hampton Bar Car, a coffee shop that will also serve wine. Rosen told LTV East End News he plans early-morning hours and all-day café service; he described the space as an amenity for commuters and residents and said he wants to preserve the station’s historic character.

Some residents, however, have expressed concern that the name and branding could lead to a bar-like atmosphere. The report said a petition titled 'No Bar at East Hampton train station' had gathered close to 90 signatures in two weeks, with opponents citing safety and a change to community character. Rosen said there was a misconception that the venue would be "a bar bar-centric experience" and reiterated that most of the day the location will function as a café.

Rosen is in the process of filing permits for interior renovation and hopes to open this summer. The broadcast urged caution when boarding and exiting trains near the station and directed viewers to the LTV East End News website for updates on the permit process and community input opportunities.

Because the plan involves a leased public transit facility and on-site alcohol sales outside typical commuter-service uses, residents and regulators may seek clarifications through the permit and licensing process. The segment referenced both proponents’ statements about preserving the railroad’s history and opponents’ concerns; the petition and permit filings are the next places to watch for official determinations.