Due to the help of a hefty payment from a real estate investment firm, Coney Island will continue to host free summer concerts as a part of its Seaside Concert Series for the next six years.
According to the Brooklyn Paper, leaders from the city’s Economic Development Corporation announced that the developer iStar will contribute $3.5 million to keep the series running, paying $600,000 annually through 2025. The deal was reportedly finalized with the help of local Councilman Mark Treyger (D-Coney Island) and Borough President Adams. Treyger described the series as the community’s “most beloved and popular traditions.”
“Given the considerable public funding involved in building the Ford Amphitheater, I have long insisted that it was the responsibility of NYC Economic Development Corporation’s tenant to fund to free community events,” Treyger told Patch Brooklyn. “I am already looking forward to this summer’s shows and thrilled knowing our community will be able to enjoy them for years to come.”
Coney Island’s Seaside Concert Series is New York City’s longest-running free outdoor series, which was formed by Brooklyn Borough President Marky Markowitz back in 1978 when he held a state senator position. Throughout the past few years, the series had some financial troubles and was called-off entirely in 2014. Then, in 2017, it suffered similar issues and almost cancelled, but managed to remain open.
While it is unknown how many concerts will be held, it’s likely that iStar will help fund four of five shows each year, due to previous years’ expenses. Prior series featured acts like the late Queen of Soul Aretha Franklin, Cheap Trick, Huey Lewis and the News, and Brian Wilson of Beach Boys.
The shows are set to take place at the Ford Amphitheater at Coney Island Boardwalk and Seaside Park.
In addition to the Seaside Concert Series, Central Park’s SummerStage will open for the season. Look out for the lineup here.
