Seaside Wildlife Nature Park

Parks Celebrates Reconstruction At Seaside Nature Park

Parks & Recreation Commissioner Adrian Benepe today joined City Council Member Andrew J. Lanza to break ground on the $2.5 million reconstruction of Seaside Nature Park in Staten Island. The project is being funded with $2.1 million in Mayoral Funds with an additional $400,000 allocation from Council Member Lanza.

"The reconstruction of Seaside Nature Park is another example of our commitment to bringing New Yorkers closer to the waterfront," said Commissioner Benepe. "When we complete construction next summer, residents will have another great spot to have fun and enjoy New York City’s natural beauty."

"This is a spectacular addition to Staten Island’s already superb park system," said Council Member Lanza. "By saving this waterfront property from townhouse development, we have secured the opportunity for Staten Islanders to enjoy this picturesque park for generations to come."

The first phase of renovations at Seaside Nature Park will cover 2.8 acres and include pathways in asphalt and stone screening, and a wood planked boardwalk with an overlook. New benches, a perimeter timber barrier rail and a drinking fountain will enhance the park’s atmosphere, while new drainage and irrigation systems will improve water flow throughout the park.

Invasive plants that have plagued the site for years will be removed and replaced with native wetland plant life. Additional new plantings include trees, shrubs, groundcovers and wetland plantings native to the local area.

To visually connect the site with an expanded performance meadow, Parks & Recreation will remove and regrade a portion of the roadbed and existing soil and debris within the park. The entire shoreline will be cleared of debris to provide safe access to the water’s edge.

Future phases of the project will include a new playground and reconstructed pier. Design work on the playground is underway. Construction of a recreational fishing pier will follow.

Since 2002, Staten Island has completed 43 projects totaling $55 million. There are currently 16 projects in construction totaling $27 million. There are 43 projects either in design or bid totaling $26 million and there are 16 future projects totaling $6 million.