Riverhead Officials Debate Future of 'Alive on 25' Street Festival Amid Cost Concerns
Riverhead officials are currently debating the future of the 'Alive on 25' street festival, a popular summer event that has been a staple in the community since 2016. The festival, which is modeled after Patchogue's Alive After Five series, is facing scrutiny due to concerns over costs and disruptions. Organizer Diane Tucci has expressed urgency in planning the event, noting that the window to organize it is closing rapidly. The festival's future was discussed in a recent town board work session, where Councilwoman Joann Waski highlighted the lack of clear direction on whether the event would proceed this summer. The festival has been praised for boosting local businesses and tourism, but concerns about police overtime costs and competition from food trucks have been raised. 
