Office of Borough President James P. Molinaro
Staten Island, New York
B.P. Molinaro and Commissioner Levin announce cultural capital projects
Over $53 Million in projects for Staten Island
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. – Borough President James P. Molinaro and Department of Cultural Affairs Commissioner Kate D. Levin today announced more than $53 million in cultural capital funding for Staten Island. They were joined by Ed Burke, Deputy Borough President; Susan Chin, Assistant Commissioner of Capital Projects for the Department of Cultural Affairs, and David Resnick, Deputy Commissioner of the Structures Division for the Department of Design & Construction.
“I would like to thank Mayor Bloomberg and Commissioner Levin, as well as our City Council Members, for working with me on these exciting cultural projects that not only enrich our Borough, but will help attract the millions of tourists to Staten Island who visit New York City each year,” said Molinaro, whose office alone contributed more than $10 million to the projects. “I would also like to commend DDC Commissioner David Burney and Deputy Commissioner Resnick who work alongside DCA to bring these capital projects to fruition.”
“Borough President Molinaro and his team, alongside the City Council and the Department of Design and Construction, have been terrific partners in strengthening Staten Island’s dynamic cultural community,” said Commissioner Levin. “This support for the Island’s diverse venues will further enhance the wonderful experiences offered to thousands of residents and visitors each year.”
Current projects range from major renovations to infrastructure upgrades to equipment purchases. Highlights include:
* Historic Richmond Town
Historic Street Reconstruction and New Security System and Maintenance Vehicles
Road improvements will restore streets and sidewalks across the campus to their historic appearance, enhancing the Historic Richmond Town visitor experience. A new security system and site maintenance vehicles will help ensure ongoing safety for all visitors.
* John Noble Collection
Archives Upgrade and Roof Replacement
A new Museum-quality climate control system will enhance the Noble Collection’s archival area, and provide a new home for the Sailor’s Snug Harbor artifact collection. The installation of a historically-accurate copper roof for this landmarked facility will reduce future maintenance needs.
* Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden
Art Lab Renovation and Upgraded Space for George Way Collection
Reconstruction and renovation of restrooms at the Staten Island Art Lab will address water damage and ensure handicapped accessibility, enhancing the Art Lab experience for all students. New exhibit lighting and displays will upgrade the Building G second floor space, dedicated to the iconic George Way Collection of 16th and 17th Century English and Dutch fine and decorative arts.
* Staten Island Museum
New Home and Archives at Snug Harbor
The renovation of the historic Buildings A and B at Snug Harbor will provide expanded and upgraded gallery and public program space to house the Museum’s collection and programs. A state of the art climate controlled archive will be established in Building H to welcome researchers and ensure proper conservation of the Museum’s historic collection.
* Staten Island Children’s Museum
Meadow Pavilion and Skylight Replacement
A new pavilion in the Museum’s front meadow will expand programming capacity and allow for three-season use of the outdoor space. The cupola will be reconstructed, with replacement of leaking skylights and the inclusion of a new interactive science exhibit.
* Staten Island Zoo
Aquarium Upgrade, Children’s Farmstead Renovations and New Maintenance Vehicles
Much-needed upgrades to the existing aquarium will include new tanks, filtration and flooring. New vehicles will support enhanced maintenance work at the Zoo. Improved site drainage and utility capacity upgrades are underway. The first phase of the Children’s Farmstead will relocate two Amur Leopards to a more natural and spacious outdoor exhibit, and create a carousel to enhance the visitor experience and generate earned revenue.
* St. George Theatre
New Marquee, Rigging, and Lobby Doors
These projects will restore the exterior of the St. George Theatre with a new marquee, rehabilitate the 78-year-old stage rigging, and refurbish the lobby doors, enhancing the performance capabilities, security and safety of this historic theatre.
October 28, 2009