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Big Plans Approved For Coney Island's Landmarked Childs Restaurant
By
Nell Casey
Published Jul 10, 2013
Modified Jul 10, 2013
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By
Nell Casey
Published Jul 10, 2013
Modified Jul 10, 2013
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Marty Markowitz's longtime dream finally comes true now that the Landmarks Preservation Commission has approved plans to rehabilitate the long-vacant Childs Restaurant structure on Coney Island. Yesterday the LPC unanimously approved plans proposed by GKV Architects, which includes repairing existing details like the terracotta facade and converting the space to hold an amphitheater, restaurant and other public amenities. "The LPC has taken a major step towards ensuring that—rain or shine—the show will go on in Coney Island and America’s Playground will continue to grow bigger and better than ever,” Markowitz said.
The $53 million Seaside Park and Community Arts Center includes a 5,000 capacity amphitheater—plus room for 2,000 more in the park behind it—with a retractable roof, which will host concerts between May and October. The space will also house a restaurant and though the operator has yet to be chosen, in all likelihood it will serve breakfast fare just like the original Childs.
Along with the refurbished Parachute Jump, the restored structure will brighten up a less frequented section of the boardwalk. Markowitz himself will provide most of the money to fund the project, leaving the city responsible for buying the building and the adjoining lot. Though Commissioner Frederick Bland worried the project lacked "gaiety," he probably just wasn't picturing Marty's inevitable visits.
Tagged
childs restaurant
coney island
landmarks preservation commission
marty markowitz
Nell Casey
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