Visitor Center, Introduction and History

Sunset with Heron; photo by Micah Bochart

Before this visitor center existed, before the hiking trails were created, even before this place had gained international renown as a prime birding spot, Jamaica Bay was something of a no-man's land. Where you are standing right now, even 75 years ago, would have been a vast expanse of water and salt marsh. This has also been a hotly contested site. For decades, the Department of Docks and Ferries had wanted to transform Jamaica Bay into a cutting edge commercial and industrial seaport. The Sanitation Commissioner wanted to use the bay as New York City's dumping ground. By 1930, Robert Moses, sometimes called the Master Builder of 20th century New York City, had a different idea. He wanted to turn Jamaica Bay into the crown jewel of the New York City Park system. In 1950, an unanticipated disaster presented Moses with a bold opportunity.