Southampton prepares for the U.S. Open, expanded visitor services and a 250th-anniversary celebration

Southampton Village Mayor Bill Manger outlined preparations for a busy summer season that includes the 126th U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills and the villages 250th-anniversary festivities.

Manger said organizers expect roughly 32,000 people for the Open and that the Long Island Rail Road has increased service. "I think an even better way to get to the tournament is to take the Long Island Railroad because they are increasing the schedule of train runs," he said, noting a temporary pedestrian bridge over County Road 39 linking train disembarkation to the course and shuttle service between the golf club and Agawam Park.

The village plans a jumbotron and seating in Agawam Park so residents and visitors can watch the tournament. Manger said the Shinnecock Nation will operate some parking on the reservation and provide landing space for some helicopters.

In separate segments, Manger described two park projects: Moses Park, a recently completed acquisition improved with bocce courts, an ADA-accessible playground, and pollinator plantings for monarch butterflies; and a nearly three-acre garden renovation at the Southampton Art Center funded by a private donor who gave $3 million to revitalize grounds, with a planned July 3 grand opening.

Manger also said organizers are planning an expanded Fourth of July parade and a time capsule that Southampton Intermediate School students (assistant principal Dr. Epley) will help fill; the capsule will be buried at Moses Park and slated to be opened in 50 years.

Ending: Manger urged visitors to take trains and use shuttle options during the U.S. Open and said the village hopes event visitors will patronize local businesses and use the new walking-tour app to learn village history.