Fire Island Pines, a historic community on Barrier Island, has been a welcoming spot for gay men for years, drawing them in every summer with ferry rides. This year, though, things feel a bit different. The community is buzzing, much like a strong drink of Boosie’s pine punch.
Tristan Schukraft, a hospitality entrepreneur, has recently signed a contract to manage 75% of the commercial area in Fire Island Pines through his company, Tryst Hospitality. Henry Robin, president of the Fire Island Property Owner Association, expressed his excitement: “I’ve never felt more optimistic at the start of a new season,” a sentiment echoed across the community.
Andrew Kiltzman, a local political consultant, remarked on the evolution of the business district that Schukraft is set to enhance. “It seems like he’s got a vision and the resources to upgrade everything,” he noted.
With a hefty $17 million investment, Schukraft’s takeover encompasses the center of the community, home to bars, clubs, gyms, and accommodations known as Triest. He mentioned in an interview, “When I learned it was up for sale, I was instantly interested.” He’s previously worked on revitalizing LGBTQ venues, including the Abbey in Los Angeles.
Yet he acknowledges that his intentions in Fire Island Pines feel more like a passion project. “These aren’t just major investments for me,” he said, reflecting on different ventures he’s been involved in over the years.
His plans for the community include a new bar, club, and gym, along with the transformation of the Botel—an iconic destination. Schukraft, with a touch of humor, recalled a moment when he jokingly told a firefighter, “If there’s a fire, I’m not rushing out.”
John Barrett, an editor from Brooklyn with ties to Fire Island, pointed out that as renovations progress, some locals enjoy the entertaining scene. “I’ve been amused watching Go-Go boys dance around,” he shared.
For Naum Naumov, a tech worker also visiting from Brooklyn, the arrival of new ownership brought a refreshing excitement. Schukraft aims to renovate not just venues like the Blue Whale, a famed LGBTQ hotspot, but also to honor the history while updating the spaces for modern enjoyment.
“We plan to demolish it and create a two-level space,” he confirmed, hinting at plans for the Pavilion, another historic venue set for transformation.
In the meantime, Robin mentioned a generational shift within the community, noting that ownership changes have surged recently. Ivan Valladares, a young communications specialist, expressed his enthusiasm for improvements: “We’re hopeful to see Pines get some loving attention,” he said, while also acknowledging concerns about rising costs and potential cultural shifts.
Naumov added a thoughtful note about the changing dynamic of the community, referencing how alterations affect everyone. Amid this, Schukraft voiced intentions to increase accessibility, pointing out that current options are limited.
“I’ve always wanted to be part of this, but it’s challenging to find a place unless you know someone,” Schukraft reflected. Zak Stone, running a management company, is excited about the potential for improved nightlife and music diversity under the new leadership.
Schukraft believes there’s a rich historical narrative tied to Fire Island, spanning decades of culture and community resilience. As he put it, “People have relied on this place for so much over the years.”
In the end, Naumov encapsulated the thought: “Everyone’s a bit cautious, but there’s a sense of optimism.”
