You are reading

Officials Break Ground on $24 Million Upgrade to New York State Pavilion

New York State Pavilion, which consists of the three observation towers overseeing the “Tent of Tomorrow” (Photo: Daniel Avila/NYC Parks)

Nov. 11, 2019 By Michael Dorgan

Elected officials held a ground-breaking ceremony on Friday to mark the beginning of a $24 million overhaul to preserve the three observation towers that are part of the New York State Pavilion.

The three towers look over the “Tent of Tomorrow,” the centerpiece of the Pavilion, which consists of a massive ring of steel and reinforced concrete. The Pavilion was built in Flushing Meadows Corona Park as part of the 1964/65 World’s Fair.

The towers–measuring 60 feet, 150 feet and 226 feet respectively—have fallen into disrepair and the city aims to preserve them. The $24 million budget is being used to waterproof the tower bases, replace the stairs and ensure their structural integrity. The project also involves electrical work, including the addition of dynamic architectural lighting.

“This work will enable future generations to continue to enjoy the Pavilion’s distinctive Space Age architecture and be reminded about the important role the 1964-65 World’s Fair played in Queens history,” said Queens Borough President Melinda Katz.

The revamp is expected to be completed by the spring of 2021 and represents the first major effort to preserve the towers since the Fair.

The work, however, will not result in public access to them until further investment is made. When the observation towers first opened, the two shorter towers included cafeterias while the tallest tower held an observation deck.

The observation deck was the tallest point of the fair and provided spectacular views over the Tent of Tomorrow which measures 350 feet by 250 feet, with sixteen 100-foot columns suspending a 50,000 square-foot roof of multi-colored panels.

Tent of Tomorrow, the centerpiece of the New York State Pavilion (Daniel Avila/NYC Parks)

The pavilion was supposed to have been taken down after the World’s Fair but wasn’t due to high cost to dismantle it. There have been calls over the years for it to be demolished. However, preservationists called for it to remain.

“We are excited to restore this historic structure for the enjoyment of New Yorkers and visitors,” said NYC Parks Commissioner Mitchell J. Silver.

“This treasured landmark will continue to serve as a symbol of Queens for generations to come,” he added.

The World’s Fair attracted more than 50 million people and its theme of “Peace Through Understanding,” was dedicated to “Man’s Achievement on a Shrinking Globe in an Expanding Universe.”

It was also symbolized by the Unisphere, the 12-story-high, stainless-steel model of the earth that remains a New York City icon.

The revitalization work is funded by a $13.1 million allocation from Queens Borough President Melinda Katz, $9 million from Mayor Bill de Blasio, and $1.9 million from Council Member Francisco Moya.

(Photo: Daniel Avila/NYC Parks)

email the author: news@queenspost.com

2 Comments

Click for Comments 
Knuckles

They should invest in also painting the towers. The main structure was painted 4 years ago and it looks great. Now the towers look like relics next to the re-painted main structure. A little TLC goes a long way.

Reply
Yeah Ok

24 million – I’d like to see the receipts… these expensive projects always show nothing for them. I’d like to really see where the 24 million goes after they just slap a coat of paint on it. Look at the multi million dollar project of the park on 71st and metro, 6 million or such later and the park was destroyed for the kids. Trees cut for no shade and 2 water fountains added… no restrooms or sprinklers for summers. 10K per steel drums. What do these people think? Sorry money is in someones pockets

7
1
Reply

Leave a Comment
Reply to this Comment

All comments are subject to moderation before being posted.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Recent News

Finding Room to Grow: NYC Apartment Buildings Designed with Families in Mind

Jul. 29, 2025 By Tara Lustberg

Finding family-friendly housing in NYC can be a challenge, especially with the average rent of a two-bedroom apartment in NYC averaging over $5,400 per month, according to apartments.com. According to reports, this is significantly higher (148%) than the national average and has increased by 7% since December 2023. But some properties offer thoughtful amenities for families, making city living seem more manageable.

Unwind after hours at these cozy Queens cafes

Jul. 25, 2025 By Jessica Militello

Forget the bars and crowded clubs — Queens is brimming with charming cafes that keep their doors open well past sunset, offering a perfect alternative for those who want to meet up for a late-night hangout without the alcohol. From authentic Yemeni coffee houses to bakeries with outdoor garden patios, check out these Queens cafes for your next late-night catch-up with friends, or for a cozy date night plan.

Cool off this summer with margaritas in Queens

Jul. 25, 2025 By Paulina Albarracin

The summer season ushers in outdoor adventures, extended daylight hours and sweltering heat, making it the perfect time to kick back at a local restaurant or bar and order a refreshing margarita. Sipping on this tequila-infused cocktail is one of the best ways to beat the heat and revel with margarita connoisseurs in your neighborhood.

A slice of legacy: Carlo’s Pizzeria keeps Sicilian tradition alive in Middle Village

Jul. 18, 2025 By Christy Hinko

On Metropolitan Avenue, between 74th and 75th streets in Middle Village, Carlo’s Pizzeria isn’t just a place to grab a slice — it’s a place where history is folded into every piece of dough, sauce and cheese. The beloved neighborhood pizzeria has been serving Queens for nearly 60 years, now led by third-generation owner Anthony Caruana, who proudly carries forward the dream his grandfather brought from Sicily.