Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation

"Jones Beach State Park is ready for the future and looking better than ever," Governor Cuomo said. "This isn't just a park - it is a public monument that will change people's lives, and I encourage New Yorkers and tourists alike to help celebrate its birthday this weekend by participating in some of the exciting activities and events that are planned."

"Our state parks are an important part of the New York experience, providing incredible recreational opportunities in every region," said Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul. "As we mark the 90th summer season at Jones Beach, we look forward to showcasing the many improvements that have been made to enhance the fun and excitement at one of the gems of our state park system."

State Parks Commissioner Erik Kulleseid said, "This crown jewel of our parks system is sparkling brightly at 90. Many millions of New Yorkers have enjoyed this oceanside park since it opened this very weekend back in 1929, and thanks to Governor Cuomo's commitment to its renewal, many millions more will enjoy it for decades to come."

Senator John Brooks said, "Jones Beach has always been the jewel of Long Island. For decades people from all over have come to enjoy the ocean and partake of the miles of boardwalk features. This weekend we are celebrating not only its 90th year as the premiere family destination for fun and relaxation in the summertime, but the vast improvements that are occurring which will ensure the next 90 years are even better."

Assemblyman David G. McDonough said, "I am pleased to join with Commissioner Erik Kulleseid to celebrate the 90th Anniversary of the creation of Jones Beach State Park that was originally designed by Robert Moses to enhance the enjoyment of all the residents of New York State. Jones Beach State Park is the crown jewel of the New York State Park system and I look forward to the 100th Anniversary celebration."

Nassau County Executive Laura Curran said, "I am proud that Nassau County is home to such a wonderful beach that attracts countless residents and tourists alike and I look forward to the future enhancements to make this iconic beach even better."

Numerous events are set for the anniversary weekend at the 2,413-acre park, located on a barrier island with more than six miles of sandy beaches on the Atlantic Ocean. Designed by Robert Moses, the park has been on the National Register of Historic Places since 2005 and draws more than six million visitors a year.

Events include a food truck village featuring Cousin's Maine Lobster All Star Specialties, Neapolitan Pizza Express, Simply Greek, Bells BBQ and others, at the West Bathhouse, available both days from noon to 8 PM.

From 4 to 8 PM both days, inflatables for children will be available at the West Bathhouse Grass Panel, actors in period costumes will stroll the boardwalk; lawn games will be held at the West Bathhouse; and self-photo stations will be set up featuring picture cut-outs of amusing Jones Beach park staff uniforms of the past.

Also scheduled are a magic show at West Bathhouse from 6 to 6:45 p.m., a strolling juggler on the boardwalk from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. and a World War II-style singing group, American Bombshells, will perform on the Showmobile on the West Grass Panel from 7 to 8:30 PM.

On Aug. 4, the normal $10 parking charge will drop to 50 cents, reflecting the weekend fee the year that Jones Beach opened. That day, a 400-pound birthday cake will be cut and pieces handed out starting 11 a.m. in the Central Mall. Afterward, 9,990 free cupcakes will be handed out throughout the park.

To cap off the party, panels outlining the storied history of the park will be unveiled on the boardwalk rail within the Central Mall in front of the Boardwalk Café.

Since 2011, State Parks has completed and started more than $100 million in projects to restore Jones Beach State Park's historic grandeur, repair damage from Superstorm Sandy, attract new visitors and create new recreational facilities as part of a multi-year revitalization plan under the Governor's NY Parks 2020 Plan.

Projects completed include the rehabilitation of the West Bathhouse Complex and Field 6, restoration of the historic Central Mall mosaics, new playgrounds at the West Games Area and Zach's Bay, new gateway signage, completion of the new Boardwalk Café restaurant, and a new WildPlay Adventure park with zip lines. Earlier this year, the Jones Beach Shared Use Path opened, providing a new 4.5-mile leisure trail that offers walkers, skaters, runners and cyclists stunning oceanside views.

More improvements are coming to Jones Beach. Later this summer, new basketball courts will open in the East Games Area. The $1.3 million project will install one full basketball court and five half basketball courts as well as new lighting, fencing, benches and drinking fountains.

Construction will also take place this year on a series of additional improvements at Jones Beach to be completed in 2020, including;

• $4.2 million renovation of the West Games Area, featuring the a new mini-golf course, refurbished and new court games such as pickleball and shuffleboard, new benches, tables, fencing and lighting and additional site improvements.

• $2.4 million in landscape and horticulture improvements at the West Bathhouse, Central Mall and East Games to renew lawn areas and planting beds, plant new shrubs, ornamental grasses and seasonal access plants, and install new irrigation and electrical system.

• $1.2 million renovation of the Central Mall, including new curbs, bluestone and concrete pavements, refurbished access ramps, and new and rehabilitated utilities.

State Parks oversees more than 250 parks, historic sites, recreational trails, golf courses, boat launches and more, which were visited by a record 74 million people last year. For more information on any of these recreation areas, call 518-474-0456 or visit www.parks.ny.gov, connect with us on Facebook, or follow on Instagram and Twitter.