Childs Building, Proposed Elevation Boardwalk. GKV Architects, PC and Higgins Quasebarth & Partners via NYCEDC
Visitors to Coney Island frequently ask “What are those ruins on the Boardwalk?” From Steeplechase Pier, where the crumbling walls are not evident but the allure is unmistakeable, they simply ask “What is that building?” On Wednesday at 10:00 am, the City Planning Commission at 22 Reade St. will consider and is likely to approve the plan to convert the former Childs Restaurant building on the Boardwalk, a New York City landmark, into an amphitheater for live concerts and a restaurant. If the board votes yes, as expected, then it goes to the City Council on Dec 16
The project’s official name is “The Seaside Park and Community Arts Center” and it would also “provide the community with additional publicly accessible recreational and entertainment opportunities throughout the year,” according to the proposal. The application was submitted by property owner iStar Financial (AKA Coney Island Holdings) and the City’s Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC).
Anyone wishing to speak at the hearing is requested to fill out a speaker’s slip at the staff desk outside the hearing chambers. Remarks are limited to 3 minutes. The full agenda of the meeting –the Childs Building is “Nos. 9-14”– and information on submitting written statements can be found in the calendar[pdf].
section Looking at Stage, Childs Building in Season. GKV Architects, PC and Higgins Quasebarth & Partners via NYCEDC
As previously noted (“Clock Ticking on Plan for the Landmark Childs Building,” ATZ, September 25, 2013), the City has the funds to bring the landmark back to life since Borough President Marty Markowitz will be able to use $50 million set aside in 2010 for a $64 million amphitheater in Asser Levy Park that was halted by a lawsuit. Since then, his free Seaside Concerts have been held on the Washington Baths site, a vacant lot across 21st Street from the Childs Building.
If the $50 million isn’t spent by the time the Borough President’s third term ends on December 31, 2013, it would go back into the public coffers and be lost to Coney Island. The landmark building’s deteriorating condition is also cause for concern. After Sandy, parts of the terracotta facade cracked and began falling off. A sidewalk shed was installed this summer.
Childs Building, Proposed elevation West 21st Street. GKV Architects, PC and Higgins Quasebarth & Partners via NYCEDC
Related posts on ATZ…
December 2, 2013: New Construction: Coney Island Area’s 1st Hotel in Decades
November 28, 2013: Photo Album: Parachute Jump Lights Way to Year-Round Coney Island
October 30, 2013: Photo Album: Four Transformations, One Year After Sandy
October 7, 2012: ATZ’s Big Wish List for the New Coney Island
Amusing the Zillion 
Do you know whether the Terra Cotta art will remain on the facade? Looks like a sign will be in place on the southern part of the building. I’m hoping is will be done tastefully. I’ve loved that building since I was a child. I have many photos of the Terra Cotta, beautiful pieces. Thanks for the update.
Yes, the project includes the restoration of the facade and rooftop along with the adaptive reuse of the Childs Building..Since it is a city landmark, the plans had to first be approved by the Landmarks Commission. As you know since you’re familiar with the building, the side with the stage is a brick wall. It is adjacent to a community garden, which was offered space to move a few blocks away.
Some of my friends in Coney Island do not approve of the project but this long vacant landmark is crumbling and who knows when/if there will be another chance to save it? It is also important to continue to activate the Boardwalk west of Stillwell Ave. I’m okay with this plan as long as the developer keeps all the promises they made to the community.
I agree, Tricia. This has been long overdue. I have photos over forty years old showing neglect of the wonderful façade. It is about “time” that something constructive is done. After this, let’s concentrate on the Shore Theatre.
Yes, the Shore Theater! Another neglected building, vacant for more than 35 years, though recently landmarked.
I hope the interior can be restored as well…