J. Kokolakis Contracting, Inc.
Thanks for your message.
We’ll be in touch shortly
Project Overview
The Mary Cali Dalton Recreation Center is being constructed in Staten Island, New York, adjacent to the historic Lyons Pool. The original recreation center, built in the 1940s on timber piles in New York Harbor, served the community for decades before it was removed after Hurricane Sandy in 2012. Recognizing the need for a replacement facility, NYC DDC and NYC Parks issued a design-build RFP for a new recreation center to honor Mary Cali Dalton, who advocated for health and welfare while working with the NYC Parks Department. This project is a pilot NYC DDC design-build initiative that incorporates flood resilience, daylight harvesting, sustainable energy-efficient systems and a hardened lobby with flood gates designed to withstand eight feet of water.
Community Impact
The project exemplifies innovation in the face of engineering and design challenges associated with creating sustainable, resilient buildings in the era of climate change. Designed to withstand 100-year base flood and storm surge elevations, the recreation center serves as a model for resilient waterfront development in flood-prone urban areas. The project supports community wellness, honors the legacy of Mary Cali Dalton and demonstrates how infrastructure can adapt to changing environmental conditions affecting cities across America.
The Challenges
The confined lot for the building was extremely tight. The building is situated in the 8-foot flood zone of the New York Harbor, less than 50 feet on its east side, within 12 feet of the Staten Island Railroad on the west and near the Hannah Street Bridge on the south. These conditions required careful constructability reviews, evaluation of crane locations and structural adjustments to fit site limitations. Coordination and approvals with MTA, NYC DEP and NYC DOT Bridges, along with vibration and deflection monitoring, were significant. With only one road shared by community residents and Miller’s Launch, logistics for deliveries were critical to maintaining the schedule. The adjacent Lyons Pool facility also remained occupied and open to the public during the summer months.
The Technology
Revit BIM 3D modeling was used extensively for coordination and constructability throughout the project. GPS surveying with AutoCAD design points improved accuracy during design and construction. Precast sandwich panels were incorporated into the exterior, combining structural, thermal and finish components into one prefabricated element. This eliminated the need for interior framing and perimeter finishes, improving efficiency while reducing costs and construction waste.
The Timeline
The notice to proceed for design was issued in April 2022. The design was completed in March 2024. Construction site mobilization for the project began in September 2023. The project is on target to finish in June 2026.
Want to Learn More About J. Kokolakis Contracting, Inc.?
Founded in 1972, J. Kokolakis Contracting, Inc. has grown from a small family business into one of the nation’s leading general contractors. The company is recognized for delivering complex projects in government, education, transportation and community development with a focus on quality, integrity and innovation. Guided by a client-first philosophy, J. Kokolakis Contracting continues to build trusted partnerships and lasting contributions across the communities it serves.
