Prior to its repeal in 2019, any white/ivory bricks along the mid-beach corridor between 53rd and 64th streets were eligible for adoption, for a donation fee of $1,000.
Following the direction from the March 7, 2022 meeting, Administration considered areas on the beachwalk for the “Brick Paver” Program and ultimately determined that the beachwalk is not a good location for this program.
Some contributing factors are:
· Brick pavers need a solid base for support so that they do not become loose.
· The pavers on the beachwalk are built on a sand base which is softer and will lead to settlement and misalignment of the pavers.
· The constant pedestrian and bicycle traffic are better suited for a smooth level surface.
· Brick pavers are more expensive than regular surfaces and require more maintenance in high traffic areas.
If it is still the desire of the Committee to move forward with the program, Administration recommends including the program concept in an appropriate future park development such as the Lummus Park masterplan.
Additionally, at the March 7, 2022 PSNQLC meeting it was recommended that the donation fee start at $1,500 with net proceeds from the brick paver program going towards educational programming.
Based on community feedback the department received from the “Adopt-A-Bench” Program, the potential application process for the “Brick Paver” Program may deter interest and somewhat hinder the programs’ potential to reach a larger audience. As it currently stands, any program with commemorative inscriptions would need to undergo the public hearing process pursuant to 82-504(a)(2)(a) of the City Code, which may take anywhere between 2-3 months. It is recommended that the program bypass the formal public hearing process and Commission grant the responsible department the ability to approve applications administratively.
It is also important to note that the Sabrina Cohen Foundation has begun a “Brick Paver” program at Beach View Park, which is located on 53rd Street and Collins Avenue, as part of the adaptive recreation center and the fully accessible park.