Photo compliments of The Fire Island Pines historical preservation society.
[Editorial Note: A retraction for this article has been published. You can find the update here: EXCLUSIVE: Fire Island Pines not for sale despite reports.]
Spring has sprung, and that puts Fire Island on the minds of many New York gays. However, following the fire in the Pines last fall, things might not be same in the summer of 2012. Although beach season is right around the corner, there hasn’t even been a ground breaking on construction to rebuild the Pavilion. That (coupled with rumors that the current owners, FIP Ventures, are trying to sell) makes the outlook for the Fire Island Pines look not-so-bright.
Rumor has it, FIP Ventures wants to sell the Fire Island Pines resort for $22 million, despite having paid only $17 million less than two years ago.
When asked about the prospect of selling his shares, co-owner Andrew Kirtsman said: “I don’t have anything for you, unfortunately.”
There is still hope for rebuilding the Pavilion, though. FIP says they have hired several high profile architects who will put together a plan for a temporary structure for Summer 2012 and a more permanent building to be in place by the following summer. Having the Pavilion is important, because it is the only real dance venue in the Pines section.
Meanwhile, on the other side of Fire Island, Daniel Nardicio is amping up promotions in Cherry Grove. Not only will he be promoting his Friday night party again this year; but he will also be adding a Saturday night event as well. On top of that, Nadicio will be paying the water taxi service to stay open until 3am making it easier to get back to the Pines after partying in Cherry Grove. At least this means party goers in Fire Island will still have a place to dance the night away even if the Pavilion doesn’t get rebuilt by summer.
Whether FIP successfully sells their 80% share of the Pines or decides to rebuild the Pavilion or not, one thing is for sure. It’s going to be a different experience on Fire Island this summer for everyone involved.
