Jones Beach to undergo multi-million dollar improvements

Joe Shlabotnik | Flickr

Jason Chen

Northwell Health at Jones Beach Theater, more commonly known as the Jones Beach Theater, is gearing for a multi-million dollar renovation.

The historic venue is one of the two major outdoor arenas in the New York metropolitan area. It has hosted music talents such as songwriter Jimmy Buffet, Grammy Award winner James Taylor and rock band Aerosmith.

“New Yorkers have visited the historic Northwell Health at Jones Beach Theater for years to see their favorite artist perform, and this investment will fund critical improvements to this iconic venue,” Gov. Kathy Hochul said.

This renovation is estimated to take five years with the main goal to significantly improve the concert-view experience. These improvements include installing new entrances, building a new plaza for local food and beverage stands, remodeling all restrooms, improving resilience from high tides and upgrading seats and restrooms.

In addition, the Jones Beach Theater will receive new entrance gates under a canopy roof structure, a new plaza for food vendors and more quality enhancements. Sustainability improvements will also be made; as a focus on green operations such as: Zero Waste Stations, elimination of plastic straws, water refill stations and a composting program will be added.

This project is spear-headed by a partnership between New York State and Live Nation Entertainment, the entertainment company funding the project.

“Our plans for the Northwell Health at Jones Beach Theater will add even more modern conveniences that fans enjoy while staying true to the character of this historic venue” Tom See, chief operating officer of Live Nation’s Venue Nation, said.

The renovation seems to be well received by many, as it has historical value to the locals within the community.

This project came to be under the New York State Park’s 20-year operating agreement with Live Nation Entertainment. This agreement seems to come to be not only for the entertainment purposes but also the economic purposes.

“A staple within the Long Island community for decades, these improvements will not only ensure greater enjoyability of the venue during events they will also encourage tourism and create much-needed job openings – both of which will in turn help stimulate our economy” State Senator John Brooks said.

The theater is able to seat 14,500 people and with these improvements, the quality of the experience will greatly improve. Some tout the commitment and dedication of Live Nation entertainment to always improve the experience, including screen digital video boards and expanding menu items.

The exact cost and details of the project is not specified but what is known is the first arounds of work are estimated to complete prior to next summer. With the efforts of New York State and Live Nation Entertainment, the optimism from the improvements will ensure the Jones Beach State Park venue remains a top entertainment destination for another generation.