Lyons Pool Recreation Center
A WPA-era public swimming complex on Staten Island’s North Shore, featuring an Art Moderne bathhouse and three pools designed by Joseph L. Hautman.
At a glance
The Lyons Pool Recreation Center spans 3.2 acres on the North Shore of Staten Island, overlooking New York Harbor. Its centerpiece is a one-story brick bathhouse in the Art Moderne style, arranged in an L-shape around a general swimming pool, diving pool, and wading pool. The complex remains in active use and is maintained by the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation.
History
Designed by architect Joseph L. Hautman, the Lyons Pool was constructed as a Works Progress Administration project between 1935 and 1936. The complex opened to the public on July 7, 1936, making it the only WPA-era pool built on Staten Island during that era of New Deal infrastructure investment.
The facility underwent extensive renovation between 1984 and 1986. In 2008, the complex and its bathhouse interior were designated as a city landmark by the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission. The adjacent George Cromwell Center, also designed by Hautman, was demolished in 2013; the Mary Cali Dalton Recreation Center is currently under construction above the pool’s parking lot.
What you see
The bathhouse exemplifies Art Moderne design principles with its streamlined brick construction. The building divides into three functional zones: a northern wing housing women’s facilities, a western wing for men’s facilities, and a connecting rotunda containing the main lobby. This tripartite arrangement reflects the gender-segregated bathing customs of the 1930s.
Three distinct pools serve different purposes: the main swimming pool for general recreation, a dedicated diving pool, and a shallow wading pool for young children. The L-shaped bathhouse wraps around these water features, creating an integrated recreational landscape.
Cultural significance
The Lyons Pool represents New Deal-era commitment to public recreation and community infrastructure. As Staten Island’s sole surviving WPA pool complex, it documents both the architectural ambitions and social priorities of 1930s urban planning—providing free, accessible swimming facilities to working-class neighborhoods.
Key facts
- Location: Tompkinsville neighborhood, Staten Island, New York City
- Coordinates: 40.6372°N, 74.0742°W
- Completed: July 7, 1936
- Architect: Joseph L. Hautman
- Style: Art Moderne
- Site area: 3.2 acres (1.3 hectares)
- Designated city landmark: 2008
Practical information & getting there
The Lyons Pool Recreation Center operates as a public facility under NYC Parks. Located on Staten Island’s North Shore near New York Harbor, the complex is accessible by public transportation and local roads. For current hours, admission fees, and seasonal operation details, contact NYC Parks directly or visit their website.
Sources & resources
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