The Town of Islip recently renovated and restored the historical pillars that flank the entrance to Esplanade Street in Bayport at Memorial Park, which were installed in 1947.

During the Bayport Civic Association meeting this past January, it was brought to president Bob Draffin’s attention by a community member that the pillars were “ready to crumble.”

“After I found out, I drove by and took photos and it was worse than I thought,” said Draffin.

With the bases falling apart and deep crevices in the brickwork, Draffin said, “It looked like with a good push you could knock them over.”

Draffin contacted Town of Islip councilman John Lorenzo (C-4th district) about the precarious pillars.

Lorenzo ensured Draffin that the town would address the issue, but that cement work in winter would not be an option.

A number of residents also contacted the town’s office and Department of Public Works commissioner Tom Owens.

“DPW staff assessed the situation with the pillars, and found them to be dangerous, as they were deteriorating and falling down. The pillars have been rebuilt, are structurally sound and safe,” said town supervisor, Angie Carpenter.

Laser Industries was employed to recast the distinctive, spherical tops of the pillars with new concrete forms.

The fabricated crowns are “close to what we had,” according to Draffin.

Crews were even able to salvage the original 75-year-old “Bayport Memorial Park” sign that was installed in the World War II-era pillars and incorporate into the new pillar.

Connie Haab, who has lived her nearly 100 years as a Bayport resident only houses away from the entrance, said, “The pillars have been there for as long as I can remember and serve as a landmark for our park and adjoining streets. I am so pleased to see them replaced with an exact replica and so beautifully done.”

A member of the Memorial Park committee, Draffin said it was of exceeding importance to him to have approval and gratitude from Haab.

Lorenzo said the pillars were “in a state of disrepair” and felt motivated to help restore them.

“Bayport Memorial Park, which celebrated its 75th anniversary last year, holds significant importance as a gathering place for our community to honor our fallen war heroes. I am extremely pleased with the outcome of their restoration,” said Lorenzo.