Coney Island: $2.5 million earmarked for Sea Cliffs repairs
Mayor Mamdani and Council Member Santosuosso announced funding to fix windows, habitats, and water systems at the 37-year-old New York Aquarium exhibit.
By Adrian Kovalenko ·
New York City will spend $2.5 million to repair the Sea Cliffs exhibit at the New York Aquarium.
Mayor Zohran Mamdani authorized a $2 million allocation for the Wildlife Conservation Society facility. City Council Member Kayla Santosuosso added $500,000 from her own budget. The money will cover habitat restoration, new viewing windows, and mechanical upgrades.
The exhibit is 37 years old. It has required ongoing repairs since Superstorm Sandy struck in 2012. The storm caused sustained damage to the structure. Santosuosso described the site as an ongoing recovery project. She said the staff are always trying to repair and maintain the facility.
The funding targets three main areas. First, it will restore the artificial concrete rock work around the animal pools. The rock work has deteriorated from marine exposure. Second, it will replace all 15 original viewing windows. These windows have become brittle from age and sun. Leaking seals have caused water to enter visitor pathways. Third, it will upgrade two chilled-water systems. These systems serve the lower-level jewel tanks and the penguin exhibit.
The plan also includes expanded holding spaces for penguins and sea otters. These upgrades aim to meet animal care guidelines. Shading will be installed at three locations. This is intended to protect animal eye health, reduce algae growth, and improve water quality. The exhibit is home to sea otters, Atlantic seals, and penguins.
Christopher Durosinmi, the WCS director of government and community affairs, thanked the mayor and the council member. He stated that the funding will support much-needed upgrades. He said the changes will enhance animal welfare, staff safety, and the visitor experience. The mayor’s office and Santosuosso announced the investment on Oct. 26. They made the announcement next to Pickles, a seal at the exhibit.
Santosuosso took office earlier this year. She said the aquarium is one of her favorite places. She secured the half-million dollar allocation before the mayor’s office approved the larger sum. The aquarium serves as a cultural anchor in Coney Island. Durosinmi said the investment will ensure Sea Cliffs remains a safe home for the animals. No construction timeline or visitor closure dates have been announced yet.
