Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani, NYC Parks Commissioner Tricia Shimamura and New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) Interim President & CEO Jeanny Pak today reopened the 140,000-square-foot Orchard Beach Pavilion in the Bronx following a $114 million reconstruction project that restored the landmarked building's historic architecture, expanded ADA access and revitalized concession and community spaces.
Built in 1936 with funding secured largely through the Works Progress Administration, the pavilion has been fully closed since 2009. Known for its striking columns, limestone cladding, bright blue tiles and terrazzo flooring, the pavilion was designated a landmark by the NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) in 2006.
"No longer can the Bronx be treated as an afterthought in a city of five boroughs," said Mayor Mamdani. "As beach season approaches, Bronxites and New Yorkers from across this city will once again be able to gather at the Bronx's only public beach in a space worthy of this community and its history."
"The reopening of the Orchard Beach Pavilion is an exciting investment that reflects the City's commitment to world-class public spaces for New Yorkers to enjoy in all five boroughs," said Deputy Mayor for Operations Julia Kerson. "We're thankful to our partners across City government who helped restore this landmark and ensure it is accessible and open to all New Yorkers."
"We are proud to have restored the Orchard Beach Pavilion to its former glory, with a level of investment that the Bronx deserves," said NYC Parks Commissioner Tricia Shimamura. "Thanks to this project, the pavilion is more accessible to all visitors, will offer improved amenities and has a revived look that highlights its striking architectural features. After being closed off to public access for more than 17 years, we're thrilled to welcome New Yorkers back to the pavilion this summer!"
"The Orchard Beach Pavilion is one of New York City's most beautiful destinations, and we are thrilled of the work we have done to renovate this historic space that will be enjoyed by many New Yorkers when beach season officially begins," said NYCEDC Interim President & CEO Jeanny Pak. "With these renovations, the 'Riviera of New York' will once again become a public amenity that is fitted for modern times, and we look forward to welcoming families to this landmark destination to relax, rest and play."
"The restoration of the landmark Orchard Beach Bath House and Promenade shows what is possible when government delivers for the people of New York," said Landmarks Preservation Commission Chair Lisa Kersavage. "Originally built during the Great Depression to create a beautiful public space for all New Yorkers, thanks to restoration and accessibility improvements led by NYC Parks and NYCEDC and approved by LPC, this iconic Bronx landmark is ready to welcome visitors back for this summer - and beyond."
The pavilion's ground floor is now open to the public and includes upgraded restroom facilities. Visitors can also enjoy the upper balconies to take in views of the beach and Long Island Sound.
The restoration included extensive structural and architectural repairs to the roofs, columns, limestone cladding, glazed terracotta, terrazzo and metalwork. The project also added new trees and upgraded lighting throughout the site.
To improve accessibility, the landside entrance now includes new ramps leading to the upper level of the pavilion. On the beach side, a curved brick-clad accessible ramp connects the upper level to the lower plaza near the beach, ensuring all visitors can move through the pavilion with equitable access for the first time.
Historic concession spaces within the pavilion are being rebuilt to accommodate new food and retail offerings, with upgraded mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems for long-term resiliency. NYC Parks selected Unwind Hospitality Group to operate food service and merchandise spaces within the pavilion. The company will partner with local vendors to provide a range of food options for beachgoers. These concession areas are expected to open later this summer, while the pavilion's restaurant space is scheduled to open in 2027.
The reconstruction project was funded by the Mayor's Office, the Office of the Bronx Borough President, the New York City Council and New York State. Design work was completed by Marvel Architects and construction management services were provided by Gilbane.
Orchard Beach, the Bronx's only public beach, spans 115 acres and stretches 1.1 miles along Pelham Bay Park. The beach features a promenade, playgrounds, picnic areas, a soccer field and courts for basketball, volleyball and handball. Orchard Beach is also home to NYC Parks Orchard Beach Nature Center, which offers educational exhibits on local wildlife, live marine displays and programming led by the Urban Park Rangers.
New York City public beaches officially open for the season on Saturday, May 23.
