RWA is presently converting the former Engine Company 265 Ladder 121 Firehouse located at Beach 59th St & Rockaway Beach Blvd into the Rockaway Institute for Sustainable Environment (RISE); a visitors center for community-based programs, and cultural activities focused on environmental issues. This marks a big step forward for the Rockaway community as RWA plans to partner with many community-based organizations and local businesses throughout the redevelopment stage of the firehouse.

RISE will be a place for emerging artists, and scientists alike to connect with local residents and visitors to the Rockaways through programming and multimedia art exhibitions that raise awareness of the natural environment and increase the vibrancy of the local Rockaway waterfront community.

RWA has a track record of engaging residents in community planning/development including Rockaway Waterfront Park, Rockaway Hip Hop Garden, and the “Greater Rockaway” Waterfront Vision. We have close ties to organizations, artists, environmentalists and public agencies and are seen as the “go to” organization for community-led development.

A growing arts scene is taking shape in Rockaway. RISE will convert the firehouse’s Great Hall into a gallery to exhibit various forms of art, film, and live performances; and create a well-equipped studio/lab on the 2nd floor, where emerging artists and scientists will lead community-led projects through RWA’s programming for youth and local residents.

With the RISE redevelopment, we hope to create a living laboratory that will provide insight into environmental concerns in the region and make Rockaway a more vibrant community through arts, cultural programs, and environmental stewardship activities. We believe RISE will help make the Rockaways a public tourist destination for the greater NYC community, bringing economic development, jobs, and resources to one of New York City’s most underserved communities.