Spray-painted tags were discovered on the pillars marking the entrance to the community of Strong's Neck last week along with historical markers and road signs, angering residents who are concerned the problem may spread.
Some of the tags are similar to those seen elsewhere in Three Village on places like the Nicolls Road Long Island Rail Road trestle and on road signs around town.
"People are pretty upset," said Jackie Rudman, president of the Strong's Neck Civic Association. "This is not the image we want for this community. That's the entrance to our homes."
Over the weekend, Rudman was joined by longtime resident and civic association board member Don Strong and civic association treasurer Steven Carraco in wrapping the pillars in plastic tarps to discourage the vandals from striking again.
A police spokeswoman said the incident is being investigated by Suffolk County Police Department as an incident of criminal mischief.
Rudman said the graffiti on the road signs presents a danger to drivers who may be unfamiliar with the area, especially on Dyke Road, which runs alongside Little Bay.
"This is an historic community," she said. "We certainly don't want to see this escalate. People are very proud of this community. We take this seriously."
