The New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) is reviewing a proposal for revisions to the Orchard Beach Pavilion, an individual landmark located in Pelham Bay Park, The Bronx. Designed by Marvel Architects, the project focuses on window replacement and is part of a broader reconstruction effort led by the NYC Department of Parks and Recreation and the NYC Economic Development Corporation.
Rendering of impacted area for Orchard Beach Pavilion, via LPC proposal
Originally opened in 1936–1937 under Parks Commissioner Robert Moses and designed by consulting architect Aymar Embury II, the Art Deco-style pavilion is a historic structure within the park and was designated a landmark in 2006. Proposed changes include new aluminum-framed, true divided-lite windows designed to match historic profiles. The proposal details a range of fixed and operable window types, insect screens for operable units, safety glazing at hazardous locations, and custom distraction markings to meet modern code requirements. Window visibility and replacement scope spans both the north and south wings of the pavilion.
Rendering of impacted area for Orchard Beach Pavilion, via LPC proposal
In addition to enhancing building envelope performance, the proposal prioritizes restoring original architectural elements and improving circulation and ADA accessibility between the land side, upper level, and lower level of the pavilion. Programmatic upgrades will include community spaces, concessions, and future rentable event areas, while construction methods aim to minimize vulnerabilities in flood-prone zones.
Transit nearby Orchard Beach Pavilion includes the Pelham Bay Park subway station, served by the 6 train.
The proposal was brought before the LPC on August 12.
Subscribe to YIMBY’s daily e-mail
Follow YIMBYgram for real-time photo updates
Like YIMBY on Facebook
Follow YIMBY’s Twitter for the latest in YIMBYnews
The pavilion is representative of its era with a bit of World’s Fair feeling to it. It was sadly allowed to decay along with social conditions at Orchard Beach including a colony of “ladies” in tents. This is now much improved. The beach is about 2.5 miles on pedestrian unfriendly roads from the #6 train terminus. Buses are the main access for persons without cars.
It has the largest parking lot I have ever seen in my entire life. It’s like the long-term parking at Newark airport. What could be done with that space instead!
The parking lot doesn’t bother me. It wouldn’t surprise me if visitors arrive by personal vehicle over the bus by a ratio of 4:1 and they’ve got to park somewhere. People are coming for the beach and the pavilion, not to wander around the grounds out by the parking lot. Plus it has to be said, and I’m very pro-transit, but lugging a family with coolers, chairs, bags, and a bunch of other stuff on the bus s-u-c-k-s. Not to mention those that want to just wear their bathing attire and not have to be dressed to ride the bus. For those that have a car, driving is just much more convenient.
Signs say, “ completion Spring 2025”.
It should have been done years ago. I heard a few celebrities donated money for this cause. Get it done, and don’t take as long as the Metro North Stations. The Bronx needs LOVEtoo…
THE BRONX NEEDS LOVE TOO… Get this done…