Suffolk County Executive Steve Levy presented a controversial plan Tuesday to build hundreds of affordable housing units and a sports and entertainment venue off Yaphank Avenue.

Levy and housing advocates say the planned construction will benefit the economy by keeping young people on Long Island and preventing "brain drain."

Some residents say the project will pollute nearby Carmans River and affect the water quality in the area. Opponents also believe vacancies and foreclosed homes on Long Island should be renovated before new units are built.

The project must be approved by the county Legislature and the Town of Brookhaven.