40. Robert & James Coughlan

James and Robert Coughlan are two visionary brothers who have probably done more to stem the exodus of Long Island’s young people than any other developer around. Their groundbreaking real estate company has offices in Manhattan, Washington, D.C. and East Setauket. They’ve made their mark on midrise office buildings, hotels, medical facilities, industrial parks and, perhaps most important in a region like ours where affordable housing is all too rare, multifamily residences. Thanks to their patience and perseverance, the Coughlans have made TRITEC’s New Village at Patchogue a dream come true for the next generation of Long Islanders. This mixed-use development boasts almost 300 residential units nestled above office and commercial space with a mini-Soho nearby with lofts for artists and more performance venues to further liven up the downtown scene. They put the NIMBY-naysayers to shame—and that’s for the greater good of us all.