Future Uncertain for Historic Tony Dapolito Recreation Center
The historic Tony Dapolito Recreation Center on Clarkson Street has been closed since 2019 due to severe structural issues. The 117-year-old building, once a hub for local sports and fitness enthusiasts, has left residents seeking alternative facilities. Meanwhile, preservationists and political figures have differing views on its future.
Andrew Berman, executive director of the Greenwich Village Society for Historic Preservation, advocates for preserving the building's history. He believes it should be restored rather than demolished. However, Mayor Eric Adams initially proposed demolishing the center and replacing it with an expanded 'fitness hub'. In August, he announced a plan to demolish the building and construct a new, larger recreational and aquatic center alongside a city-backed housing development.
Mayoral front-runner Zohran Mamdani, however, supports restoring the closed public indoor basketball court, pool, and exercise center. He argues for preserving the historic building and its community uses.
The future of the Tony Dapolito Recreation Center remains uncertain. While preservationists and some political figures push for restoration, the current mayor's plans lean towards demolition and rebuilding. The community awaits further developments in this ongoing debate.
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