Long Island Seeks To Reverse 80-Year-Old Planning Failures

In the 1920s, 20-by-100-foot lots could be bought in Mastic Beach for $55. But with such small lots, the cost of living in the town grew too fast, forcing many residents to sell their homes to speculators. One businessman claims simply, "we were exploited, the people that were in power failed us." Now, Vision Long Island, a smart growth group, is working with the city to redevelop the old charm.