Project Overview Helping New Generations Learn to Swim
The rehabilitation of the Jones Beach East Bathhouse is part of Governor Hochul’s NY SWIMS initiative that recognizes drowning as the leading cause of death for children ages 1-4 and that climate change will increase extreme heat events. When complete, the Bathhouse will feature a fully accessible learn-to-swim pool and spray park and provide a welcoming and safe environment for new generations to learn how to swim and grow comfortable around the water.
The rehabilitation was designed to address climate change, particularly flooding and inundation. In addition, the facility will be switched from fossil fuels to all-electric, with efficient lighting, building systems controls, and on-site photovoltaics, reducing the facility’s carbon footprint.
The New York State Office of General Services, in partnership with the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation, is overseeing the construction of the project.
The scope of the project includes:
- Abatement and demolition of non-historic patio and picnic areas and associated pavilions.
- Rehabilitation of the historic main bathhouse, including installation of bathrooms, changing rooms, and concessions area.
- Installation of a zero-entry pool for swim instruction, spray features, sidewalks, shade structures, and landscaping.
The rehabilitation design aims to restore many of the buildings’ original details while providing modern amenities and fun for all abilities and ages.
Work is to be completed by the swim season of 2026.
Overall rendering of bathhouse courtyard learn-to-swim and splash pad facility.
Rendering of learn-to-swim pool.
Rendering of splash pad interactive water play features.
Rendering of splash pad interactive water play features.
Nationally Significant Historic Park Preserving an Art Deco Architectural Legacy
The Jones Beach East Bathhouse is a large recreation complex located at Jones Beach State Park in Wantagh, New York. Under the direction of Robert Moses, the East Bathhouse was designed by Herbert Magoon and constructed in 1929-30, with two additional construction campaigns in 1967-70 and 1985-88. The building is a contributing building in the Jones Beach National Register Historic District.
The initial 1929-30 complex was designed to provide facilities for park visitors. It consisted of an administration and ticketing building on the north, a large two-story southern building with sun terraces, promenades, concessions, and restrooms, and a large, enclosed courtyard space with lockers and changing rooms between the two buildings.
The building was constructed almost entirely of Barbizon brick, Ohio Sandstone, and cast stone with wood, bronze, and copper trim elements as accents. These materials were used throughout the Jones Beach Park complex to unite the buildings visually. The complex was also designed with a largely symmetrical configuration, which was subsequently altered by later construction.
After World War II, social and demographic changes greatly affected the use of the Jones Beach East Bathhouse. Later construction campaigns significantly altered the building's functional, architectural, and historical integrity. Budget constraints ultimately led to its closure in 2009.
Fast-forward to now!
On May 23, 2024, Governor Hochul unveiled plans to redesign and reimagine the Jones Beach East Bathhouse. As part of the Governor's NY SWIMS initiative to expand access to safe swimming, the project will transform the abandoned pool complex into a learn-to-swim pool and family-based spray and shade water experience.