Work has begun to replace the long-dilapidated outdoor shower and bathhouse retaining wall at Oakland Beach, a project that should be complete by Memorial Day.
The state-funded $383,000 overhaul of one of Rye’s most prominent public spaces will include four new showers, replacing temporary facilities provided by the Friends of Rye Town Park and flimsy old and leaky wall showers.
The project is funded by two state grants secured by Rye elected state officials — a $250,000 grant sponsored by Assembly member Steve Otis and a $250,000 grant arranged by State Senator Shelley Mayer. According to Rye Town administrator Debbie Reisner, any surplus remaining after the work is completed will be used for a handicapped-accessible walkway along the beachfront that has been partially funded by a $250,000 Hudson Valley Greenway trail grant.
That “promenade” surface, Reisner said, will be “a layer of stone dust over a foundation of rocks. The project will install a walkway that complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act, supporting the park’s mission of achieving accessibility for all while installing infrastructure that will address erosion from stormwater runoff.
The new retaining wall and shower area will replace what had become a dangerous area.
“The wall was unstable due to age and exposure to the elements,” Reisner said. “As a result, a row of handicapped parking spaces were fenced off for several years due to the risk posed by falling debris.”
The current work builds on improvements made last year, when new roofs were installed on the beach pavilions that often are rented out for community or family events.
In addition, the Friends of Rye Town Park has raised money for renovation of the park bathhouse tower — a local landmark that has needed significant attention for a long time.
The Rye Town Park beach serves residents of Rye City, Rye Town, Rye Neck, and the Village of Port Chester, who can buy day or season passes. Those from other areas can do so as well, at a higher cost. Passes for the 2026 summer are on sale.
