A Bronx track and field stadium, which gained some fame from a cult classic film, is set to be torn down after years of neglect.
The Parks Department finalized plans for the demolition of Van Cortlandt Park Stadium last month, following a year-long assessment that deemed the structure, filled with asbestos, “beyond repair” from the very beginning.
“It’s gone too far,” said Marlisa Wise, the Parks Department Building Director, in a conversation with the Post.
Wise explained that the building’s condition is critically damaged, with noticeable deterioration in the concrete, stemming from the materials used back when it was built in the 1930s.
The stadium, which was considered for restoration last summer, was notably featured in the football scene of the 1979 film “The Wanderers,” although filming didn’t actually occur there.
However, an engineering review revealed that the 3,000-seat venue was constructed with outdated methods and that its shallow foundations couldn’t cope with the surrounding wetlands.
High moisture levels are causing the concrete to expand, leading to degradation of the material. Wise noted this moisture permeating the structure is resulting in an internal deterioration of both concrete and steel.
The report highlighted frequent cracks in the building, implying that repairs would be needed every four to five years if not addressed.
“Every part of it—walls, beams, columns, foundations—would need replacement. At that point, you’re essentially building a new structure,” Wise remarked, adding that while there’s no immediate hazard, the building was never built to endure.
Beyond structural issues, the stadium also has problems with asbestos, lead paint, toxic materials, and mold throughout its premises.
A review indicated that the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems, all dating back to the stadium’s 1939 design, are in poor shape and don’t meet current standards.
Although some of these issues could have been fixed, the crumbling integrity of the building ultimately ended any chance of rehabilitation.
The investigation found no records indicating any repairs had been made since the original construction in the 1930s, but the Parks Department suggested that even previous efforts would have likely been futile.
“It might seem like earlier investments could have saved the building, but without foundational work, it would never be suitable for these soils. While investment could have delayed damage, it wouldn’t have resolved the underlying issues,” Wise said.
Van Cortlandt Park takes its name from the Van Cortlandt family, who were the area’s residents from 1699 until 1888.
While the park’s storied past includes that high-stakes football game featured in “The Wanderers,” filming did not actually take place there.
The positive takeaway is that the Parks Department is committed to constructing a new stadium.
Details about the design of the new facility have not been released, but Wise mentioned that local residents will be consulted for input on desired features.
As of now, a specific demolition date hasn’t been announced, as funds still need to be secured for the process.
In the meantime, Wise assured that the handball courts will remain operational for as long as they can, and assured that any demolition would not interfere with the adjacent fields or tracks.
“We truly want the community to know that they won’t lose access to these recreational spaces,” Wise emphasized.
