Landmarks Commission Votes To Approve Coney Island's Reigelmann Boardwalk As Scenic Landmark

Now that the LPC has approved “scenic landmark” status, the Reigelmann Boardwalk’s look will be preserved (Liena Zagare/BKLYNER)

CONEY ISLAND – Today, the New York City Landmarks Preservation Committee voted unanimously to approve Coney Island’s Reigelmann Boardwalk as a scenic landmark, furthering the cause of preservation of the historic destination.

Built in 1923, the Boardwalk came under threat as weathered planks were replaced by concrete and composite sections starting in 2009. In the wake of Hurricane Sandy, local residents and politicians scrambled to ensure that if destroyed, the Boardwalk would be rebuilt to its original specifications.

Considered a “scenic landmark,” the Boardwalk earns a designation shared by Prospect Park, Ocean Parkway and Eastern Parkway in Brooklyn. Importantly, the designation will “recognize the historic and cultural importance of the Boardwalk while protecting its physical presence along the coastline and its general parameters including the configuration of the boardwalk (length and width),” according to the LPC.

However, that doesn’t exactly guarantee what materials will be used to repair the nearly century-old destination. Still, as the process moves forward, many politicians are celebrating the vote by the LPC.

The iconic wood planks of the boardwalk have been the key point of contention in the fight for preservation

“For 95 years and counting, the Riegelmann Boardwalk has offered children and families from Brooklyn and beyond a pathway to the carnival of Coney Island, connecting generations of memories,” said Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams.

“By designating the Riegelmann Boardwalk as a scenic landmark, the Landmarks Preservation Commission is protecting for future generations an institution that defines Brooklyn as a destination unlike anywhere else in the world,” Adams said.

Councilmember Mark Treyger was one of the early political champions of the movement to preserve the Boardwalk, urging residents to testify before the Commission and authoring a resolution calling for preservation, which 49 of 50 City Councilmembers supported.

“I am incredibly proud and excited that the NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission has recognized the need to preserve and protect this beloved structure, as well as an integral piece of southern Brooklyn’s rich culture, history and tradition,” said Councilmember Mark Treyger. “Landmark status ensures that, no matter what, there will always be a Coney Island Boardwalk.”

Now, the LPC’s decision will come before the City Council for approval, though if Treyger’s previous resolution is any indication, it should be smooth sailing for the waterfront promenade.