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‘The people’s paradise’
Post-Hurricane Sandy, Coney Island begins another redevelopment ascent
Coney Island’s fortunes have been described as having the ups and downs of a roller coaster. From the late 19th century to World War II, it was one of the most popular attractions in the country. But during the post-war years, crowds dwindled and the seaside neighborhood began a slow decline. Developers tried to build housing with mixed success. Among them, Donald Trump’s father, Fred, built his largest project ever in 1964: Trump Village, a 3,800-unit apartment complex with ocean views. But it arguably took the devastating effects of Hurricane Sandy in 2012 to trigger a real rebirth. Ruby Schron of Cammeby’s International is now building a residential tower that will be the tallest in South Brooklyn. And Thor Equities’ Joseph Sitt, who grew up in nearby Gravesend, has over the years spent $100 million buying 12 acres of land along the boardwalk, with hopes of making Coney Island a year-round destination. For the second summer in a row, Sitt will unveil “Coney Art Walls,” an exhibit of street art. “Last year we were just getting set up. This year, we’ll be going full blast,” he told NY1.
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