Jones Beach Boardwalk Cafe To Open This Summer

New York state announced on Monday that the multi-million dollar Jones Beach Boardwalk Cafe is scheduled to open this summer, hopefully in time for the July 4 weekend.

The cafe will bring more dining options to the park's popular boardwalk, and also bring back some history to the Central Mall of Jones Beach. The original cafe was taken down in 2004 because of how run-down it was.

"For decades, Long Island's state parks have drawn families for recreation and relaxation, and we continue to make the parks attractive and welcoming for all New Yorkers and visitors alike," said Governor Andrew Cuomo. "From the Long Island Sound to the North and South Forks and all along the miles of sandy beaches, Long Island is filled with natural beauty. These new improvements and opportunities will encourage more people to visit and discover this wonderful park system for themselves."

The $20 million café will be operated by Centerplate, a concessionaire offering hospitality services at the park. And adjacent to the café, the new spray ground will also be open in time for the July 4th weekend.

In addition to the cafe, the state is also working on a 2.5 mile extension of the Jones Beach portion of the Ocean Parkway multiuse path. The extension will run from the current end of the boardwalk to the West End 2 building. When completed, it will allow users to travel the full length of Jones Beach, and create a total trail of six miles.

"I had the opportunity to tour the new Jones Beach Boardwalk Cafe," said Sen. John Brooks. "The state has done an excellent job in getting this facility prepared."

Photo: Gov. Cuomo's office