Construction is underway at Pratt Park on a new gazebo that will be dedicated to Glen Cove’s first responders during a July 4 ceremony marking America’s 250th anniversary.
The 12-by-20-foot structure, led by the Glen Cove Beautification Litter Prevention Program Inc., began taking shape this week after a concrete foundation donated by McGowan & Sons of Sea Cliff was installed earlier this month. Workers from Amish Country Gazebos in Pennsylvania arrived and began assembling the structure, including framing.
The project has an estimated value of roughly $45,000 and is being funded through community donations, local sponsorships and two beautification fundraisers. Additional improvements are supported through a PSEG Long Island Community Thrive Grant, which helped expand landscaping and site enhancements around the gazebo area.
Planned upgrades include a patriotic red, white and blue perennial garden, stepping-stone walkways, updated park signage, a public trash receptacle and a spring daffodil bulb planting along Glen Cove Avenue. Organizers said the perennial plantings were selected so they will return each year, creating a lasting seasonal display.
Lora Cusumano, president of the Glen Cove Beautification Litter Prevention Program Inc. and chair of the city’s Beautification Commission, said construction is progressing quickly. “The gazebo is really moving right along,” Cusumano said.
Officials said the gazebo will be formally gifted to the City of Glen Cove and dedicated during a ribbon-cutting ceremony scheduled for 11 a.m. July 4, following the city’s annual bike parade.
Councilman Michael Ktistakis, who serves as liaison to the Beautification Commission, said the project carries special meaning during the national milestone celebration. “The new gazebo is a magnificent and enduring tribute to America’s 250th celebration,” he said.
Barbara Peebles, vice president of the nonprofit organization, said Pratt Park’s existing 9/11 Memorial adds deeper significance to the project and the planned dedication. “Pratt Park already carries deep meaning for Glen Cove because of its 9/11 Memorial, and that makes this dedication even more special,” she said. “As we approach the 25th anniversary of September 11th and celebrate America’s 250th Birthday, this gazebo becomes more than a beautiful addition to the park. It becomes a place of gratitude, remembrance, and community pride — honoring Glen Cove’s First Responders and recognizing the courage and sacrifice that define public service.”
Pratt Park sits along Glen Cove Avenue near the Glen Cove Fire Department and serves as a gateway between downtown Glen Cove and the Garvies Point waterfront. Organizers say the park’s location makes it a natural connector between residential neighborhoods, business districts and waterfront attractions.
The project aims to enhance that corridor by improving aesthetics, walkability and public access, while also encouraging greater use of the park as a community gathering space. Officials say the addition of the gazebo and surrounding landscaping is intended to strengthen civic pride and create a more welcoming entry point into the city.
