The future of the West Village Recreation Center, known for its distinctive Keith Haring mural, is uncertain again. This follows mayoral candidate Zoran Mamdani’s endorsement of efforts to preserve the aging facility instead of tearing it down.
The Tony D’Apolito Recreation Center, a notable landmark in the area, closed in 2021 and has been set for demolition after the Adams administration reversed a prior commitment to fund $120 million in renovations. The change has led to significant concerns from community members.
Mamdani, who currently leads in the polls for the 2025 race for Gracie Mansion, has sparked hope among supporters of the center by advocating for its restoration.
During a town hall meeting in September, Mamdani criticized the decision to forsake the renovation plans in favor of constructing a new facility. He emphasized the importance of recognizing D’Apolito’s legacy and maintaining the historic structure, which dates back to 1908.
“It’s crucial that we uphold our commitments and do our utmost to honor past promises,” he stated.
A large group of West Village residents, many with fond memories of the 117-year-old rec center, rallied recently to call on the Parks Department to reconsider demolishing it.
Christina Kepple, a long-time Bedford Street resident, shared her memories: “The pool was open during summer, even in September. The community really loved it.” She voiced her disapproval, saying, “We certainly don’t need another high-rise.”
Rachel Gelman, who has frequented the rec center for over 50 years, described the ongoing battle to save it as “insane.” She expressed her frustration at being misled about renovation plans only to find out about the demolition decision.
Somer Omar, the founder of the Save Downtown Public Recreation Center Coalition, addressed the protesters, urging the city to rethink its approach, especially with Mayor Eric Adams now out of the race.
“These facilities aren’t just luxuries for those who can afford costly gym memberships,” she remarked. “They are vital resources enhancing the lives of working New Yorkers.”
City officials previously pointed to the center’s deteriorating condition, highlighting issues like a crumbling façade and non-compliant fire safety measures. They stressed that restoring the building could not meet modern safety and accessibility standards.
A spokesperson for Parks recognized the serious structural problems the center faces but Village Preservation Executive Director Andrew Berman labeled their stance as “hypocrisy,” suggesting that repairs are feasible despite the neglect.
A letter from various organizations sent to Adams in 2024 criticized the claims about the building’s state, stating the conclusion about its restorability is unfounded.
Parks officials have expressed a commitment to honoring the site’s history while introducing sustainable recreational resources. They plan to create a new outdoor pool complex that will maintain the 18-foot Keith Haring mural.
The proposed new facility, featuring an accessible indoor pool and additional recreational amenities, is set to be built alongside an affordable housing complex on Hudson Street, though supporters still wish to preserve a piece of the center’s historical significance.
Mamdani isn’t alone in his efforts; Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa also advocates for the preservation of such centers, stating that the “magnificent” Tony D’Apolito Recreation Center distinguishes New York from other cities.
“I see it as a vital community asset,” Sliwa said. “We need to balance preserving the old with developing the new, without losing historic character.”
While Andrew Cuomo’s campaign has yet to respond to inquires, Mamdani’s team did not provide additional details on their vision for the center.
“This is a critical moment for a reset, a chance to restore trust between elected leaders and the communities they represent,” Berman noted.
“Well, the mayor may be departing, but the Tony D’Apolito Center will remain.”
