Broad Channel Marina site development sought

Despite recent reports that the old Schmitt’s Marina at West 19th Road in Broad Channel “will one day become a waterfront park,” the New York City Department of Parks & Recreation has issued a Request for Expressions of Interest (RFEI) for the improvement of the parcel.
According to the Parks Department, “This RFEI is intended to solicit ideas for the revitalization of this currently dormant and underused asset from members of the local community, area non-profits and local entrepreneurs, experts in the fields of ecology, outdoor recreation, or sustainable development.”
While the word “development” raises the hackles of environmentalists, according to the RFEI, Parks is looking for ideas “That would create a new and unique experience that would both increase access and understanding of Jamaica Bay and be sensitive to the important environmental concerns in the area.”
All such solicitations, including RFEI’s, Requests For Proposals (RFP) and Requests For Bids (RFB) are handled by the Parks Department’s Revenue Division.
The site, approximately nine acres with roughly 380 feet of waterfront on Jamaica Bay, borders both the Gateway National Recreation Area and Broad Channel Park. The neighborhood stands on Big Egg Marsh, an island approximately 20 blocks long and four blocks wide.
John Schmidt, the former owner of the marina, was convicted of two felonies and other charges in 2008, after a nearly-20-year battle with authorities over unauthorized expansion of the facility and numerous environmental violations. He was ultimately sentenced to five years probation, a $19,500 fine and community service.
The RFEI was released on Wednesday, February 3 and proposals must be received by Parks no later than 3 p.m. on Wednesday, March 31. There will be a tour of the property on Tuesday, March 9 at 11 a.m. Anyone considering an expression of interest is advised to “make every effort to attend this recommended meeting and site tour.”
Copies of the RFEI are available during normal business hours at the Revenue Division of the New York City Department of Parks & Recreation, which is located at 830 Fifth Avenue, Room 407, New York, NY 10065.
For more information or to request to receive a copy of the RFEI by mail, prospective proposers may contact Evan George, Project Manager, at 212-360-3495 or at evan.george@parks.nyc.gov.