Prospect Park’s LeFrak Center at Lakeside is scheduled to reopen on August 2 with updated facilities and a revised slate of programs. As part of the changes, the center will no longer host the Dreamland Roller Disco event, which has prompted concern among some community members and roller skating enthusiasts. According to Gothamist, the renovation includes improved restrooms, upgraded lighting, and mechanical system enhancements, along with new activities such as pickleball and yoga.
Ekstein Development Group, the new operator of the facility, told Gothamist it plans to introduce other roller skating events. Dianna Carlin, also known as Lola Star and founder of Dreamland Roller Disco, voiced her opposition to the decision in a petition that received over 1,100 signatures. In the petition, Carlin wrote, "A private corporation should not have the power to decide the fate of a beloved community program that has brought joy, connection and meaning to thousands of Brooklynites."
The updated facility will also feature a new dining option, Duck Island Café and Bar, as reported by Patch. Ekstein Development Group President and CEO Erik Ekstein stated, "Lakeside will continue to provide ice skating, ice hockey, roller skating, roller disco, roller hockey, curling and boating in season, with the addition of new activities such as pickleball and yoga."
Some former Dreamland attendees have expressed disappointment over the change. Filmmaker William Tyler Smith, who regularly attended the events, shared with Gothamist, "We’re all missing one another," adding, "It's not the same. It's not reinforced every week."
The Prospect Park Alliance also continues its efforts to maintain and improve the space. Alliance President Morgan Monaco stated that the center has served hundreds of thousands of people each year through various programs since its opening more than a decade ago. The ongoing improvements include upgrades to the Splash Pad and additional sports and recreation options aimed at enhancing the visitor experience.
