Brooklyn, NY – Today, Rep. Anthony Weiner (D-Brooklyn & Queens) gave members of the media the first in-person look at construction of the $35 million Aviator Sports & Recreation complex, where four airplane hangers at historic Floyd Bennett Field are being transformed into a 170,000 square foot recreational hub for the City. Since Weiner unveiled the plans in 2003, Brooklyn has been buzzing with the news that a new, multi-use sports complex is coming to Gateway National Park.

Aviator Sports & Recreation was created with the leadership of Rep. Weiner, and local businessmen with a commitment to the communities of Brooklyn and Queens and its rich history. The accessible, world-class complex will support a diverse range of active indoor and outdoor programs for the entire family.

"For decades, Floyd Bennett Field has been one of Gateway’s great old soldiers, offering visitors a glimpse of our war time past," said Rep. Weiner. "Now, it’s going to get a jolt of new life, while still retaining its historic value. The complex will become a recreational staple for families from throughout the five boroughs, and will introduce millions to Gateway." 

COMING IN SEPTEMBER: AVIATOR SPORTS COMPLEX AT FLOYD BENNETT FIELD:

• Two state-of-the-art NHL size hockey rinks.  Complete with seating capacity for over 2,000 spectators, locker rooms for local clubs and dock for ice resurfacer.   The rinks will be used for adult and youth hockey leagues, recreational skating and skating schools.

• 25,000 sq. ft. hardwood floor indoor courts which will be configured to accommodate multiple indoor activities including basketball, volleyball and catered events.

• 15,000 sq. ft. gymnastics/dance training and competition center.

• 20,000 sq. ft. area to include “Main Street”, a 35 foot tall rock climbing wall, food court and upstairs sports bar.

• 1,800 sq. ft. retail space including a pro shop.

• Two state-of-the-art full size, outdoor, gated and lit turf fields will be configured to accommodate soccer, football and lacrosse. 

• In addition to a wide range of kids programming and summer camps, Aviator Sports and Recreation has created the Aviator “Wings” Foundation 501c (3).  The program will allow economically disadvantaged children the opportunity to engage in leagues, tournaments, activities and recreation through corporate and community support. 

The eight hangars at Floyd Bennett Field have stood sentry along Flatbush Avenue since 1931, when construction was completed on New York City’s first municipal airport. Most famously used for Navy war planes during World War II, the hangars have since become an integral part of Gateway National Park.

The family sports complex is housed in hangars five through eight, which are located to the northwest of Floyd Bennett’s municipal building. The hangars are huge, each measuring approximately 140 by 120 feet, with a height of 22 feet. In addition, each is abutted by a 30 by 140 foot "lean to”. Importantly, the remaining four hangers will be untouched by the project, allowing them to retain their historic character.

Throughout his four terms in Congress, Rep. Weiner has made sustaining Gateway, and improving its facilities a top priority. In fact, Weiner has helped secure almost $60 million dollars for Gateway since being elected to federal office in 1998.