City Council Votes Yes on Plan to Turn Landmarked Childs Restaurant Into Theater

The full City Council Thursday approved the proposal championed by outgoing Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz to turn Childs restaurant into an entertainment complex and public park. The $53,000,000 project, now called the Seaside Park and Community Art Center, will involve restoring the landmarked facade and building a 5,000 seat amphitheater, park and playground.

“By restoring this iconic section of the Boardwalk, Coney Island’s revitalization will continue, providing multiple cultural and educational benefits, as well as economic and residential advantages,” said the owner of the complex, iStar Financial, in an emailed statement.

Coney Island’s Community Board 13 voted against the plan, although their land use committee was in favor. The Landmarks Preservation Commission unanimously supports it.