State officials have confirmed that the long-awaited renovations of the East Bathhouse at Jones Beach are expected to be completed this summer, and the facility will once again be open to the public. An opening date has not been announced, but the project remains on schedule as construction continues.
When it is completed, the East Bathhouse is expected to serve as both a hub for beachgoers and a destination in its own right, offering upgraded recreational amenities. The redevelopment project is part of the state’s NY SWIMS initiative, intended to expand access to swimming facilities and improve water safety across New York.
The East Bathhouse upgrades include a new learn-to-swim area designed for children and inexperienced swimmers. This central feature will serve as a controlled environment in which beginning swimmers can build skills and confidence. The oceanfront pool complex will also be fully accessible, following Americans with Disabilities Act guidelines, with a “zero-entry” area that gradually slopes into the water.
There will also be a deep-water section for experienced swimmers, as well as a splash pad and interactive water play areas.
“The project advances the NY SWIMS initiative by helping meet Governor Hochul’s goal of teaching more children how to swim,” Dan Keefe, a public information officer for the state Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, wrote in a recent email to the Herald.
The project also includes the rehabilitation of the historic bathhouse, built in 1929, which will be updated with new restrooms, changing rooms and a concession area, while preserving its original architectural character. “The integrity of the bathhouse will be preserved,” Keefe added, “and once-removed historic elements will be reinstalled.”
The East Bathhouse closed in 2009 due to its aging infrastructure. Its redevelopment marks a major investment in one of Long Island’s most heavily visited state parks. At the same time, it will transform one of Jones Beach’s earliest defining landmarks into an accessible, modern destination.
Once completed, officials say, the project will provide expanded recreational opportunities for families visiting the park. The renovation builds on Jones Beach’s legacy as one of Long Island’s most iconic public spaces, originally developed as part of a larger vision to offer recreation along the South Shore.
