Markowitz Seeks Operator For His Beautiful Potato Chip

Image courtesy of Grimshaw Architects

The NYC Department of Park And Recreation has issued a Request for Expressions of Interest (RFEI) in seeking operators for the 5,000 seat shell-shaped amphitheater in Coney Island’s Asser Levy Park. The plan for the performing arts facility, which received controversy in the Spring of last year, by a few synagogues in the neighborhood, entails more than just a classy clam shell by the sea. The park will get major renovations with infrastructural upgrades to the frequent flooding problem, new paths and walk-ways adored with beautiful foliage among the parks collection of long-time trees. Also planned is an upgrade to the playground, a new park house, and community facilities. The reconstruction expands across the street to the chess table area and the hand-ball courts.

In part of Markowitz’s press release statement he states:

Said Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz, “This project means Asser Levy Seaside Park will be not only a welcoming eastern gateway to a revitalized Coney Island, but a place where families in the community and visitors can enjoy relaxation, recreation and the vibrant cultural programming that has been the Park’s hallmark since at least the turn of the twentieth century.”

BP Markowitz adds, “The possibilities are endless—music has always thrived in this location, and I imagine this new venue being a wonderful home for a summer residency for a philharmonic or a ballet company. I am hopeful that, as in the case of Brooklyn’s Loew’s Kings theater earlier this year, this Request for Expressions of Interest yields creative responses leading to a partnership that will provide for innovative and successful programming, maintenance and operation of the facility in the years to come.”

Curbed remains convinced they haven’t heard the end of the controversy.

The due date is Friday, May 07, 2010 @ 3:00 PM with a Site Tour on Friday, April 16, 2010 @ 10:00 AM

Download full RFEI (registration required)

Coney Amphitheater Seeks Operator; Marty Markowitz Is Bored   [Curbed]

More images after the jump

Recent plan issued. (above)

Last year’s renderings. (below)