NEW YORK (1010 WINS) -- Coney Island’s boardwalk is set to see its first major facelift in its nearly 100 years of existence.
The city’s Parks Department announced this week that over $114 million has been allocated to begin a phased reconstruction of the Riegelmann Boardwalk.
“Its history is too important, and now its future will be secured. Thanks to $114.5 million in funding from Mayor Bill de Blasio, we are proud to announce our plan to begin building a more resilient, sustainable boardwalk that protects the people and businesses that rely on it as part of their livelihood and lifestyle,” said city Parks Commissioner Gabrielle Fialkoff.
The plan calls for the 2.5-mile boardwalk to be reconstructed in multiple installments, with new piles and resilient materials. Officials said this approach means large parts of the boardwalk will still be open during construction.
Officials said the current allocation only funds the first phase of construction, and which section will be addressed in the opening phase will come down to decisions by engineers and designers.
Once finished up, the boardwalk will see new concrete structural elements, new decking, railings and furnishings. Officials said the project will “limit risk” to the community, including business owners on the boardwalk.
The boardwalk opened in 1923, named after late-1910s and early-1920s Brooklyn Borough President Edward J. Riegelmann.
“I am thrilled that the city is finally allocating funding to secure its future, and ensure it receives the needed resiliency upgrades to maintain it as an international destination for decades to come,” said Eric Adams, current Brooklyn borough president and mayor-elect of the city.
City Councilman Mark Treyger was denoted by officials as being a key player in securing the funding for the boardwalk, known for the Cyclone, the Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest and much more.