JONES BEACH, New York (PIX11) – Millions of people visit Jones Beach every year. It is a famous New York destination. And Governor Andrew Cuomo announced Thursday the state will fund a 65 million dollar project to renovate and revitalize the beach and its structures.
The project will take several years and is expected to restore historical details. There will be new restaurants, vendors, sporting venues and an adventure play area. According to the regional director of Long Island state parks, Wayne Horsley, the buildings will be built to withstand flooding and wind.
“Jones Beach has always been looked at as the jewel of the state parks system. What we’re going to be doing is not just polishing the jewel, but we’re going to be refurbishing the jewel,” Horsley said.
Lifelong beach-goers said they are excited for the changes. “It would be a great new beginning for a great beach,” Long Island resident Guy Gambino said.
Preservationists look forward to a Jones Beach that reflects Robert Moses’ original plans.
“It’s been my experience talking to people who love this beach, they have the fondest memories of what this place was like back in the day. It’s only going make it better for them,” Alexandra Wolfe, the director at the Society of Preservation of Long Island Antiquities, said.
The public will be allowed to make suggestions to the plans. A meeting is scheduled in May.
