36 RETORT OF THE 



properly repair it would cost about $10,000 ; this would be a 

 moderate outlay for the accomplishment of so desirable a result. 



The Concourse, which is one of the most desirable portions 

 of the Coney Island beach, absolutely free to the public, con- 

 tains a single but useful improvement in the bituminous con- 

 crete embankment which constitutes the promenade drive and 

 walk within the area. This is the most extensively used 

 thoroughfare on the island, and affords convenient access to 

 the improved portions of the island. The roadway since its 

 construction in 1876 has been subjected throughout the Summer 

 and Fall months to constant use by all sorts of vehicles ; this 

 surface, for want of means, has never received any but the most 

 superficial repairs during all this time ; $5,000, the sum avail- 

 able for that purpose during 1883, will be barely sufficient to 

 maintain the roadway in a usable condition for the season, 

 and unless it is intended to abandon its use, its repair by a 

 renewal of the surface with the present material, or some other 

 form of construction, will require an expenditure of $25,000 or 

 $30,000 as previously estimated. This improvement was built 

 and is maintained practically at the •expense of the citizens 

 of Brooklyn, while the town of Gravesend, which derives much 

 of its importance and a large share of profit from this and 

 other improvements projected by the Park Commissioners, have, 

 by means of special laws, been able up to the present time to 

 collect licenses, from the revenue of which, the Commissioners 

 derive no benefit, and which the town itself would not be able 

 to control were it not for the Concourse, the construction and 

 maintenance of which affords such facilities to the business 

 enterprises and pleasure traffic of the island. 



Our shelters are resorts for picnic parties and other visitors 

 throughout the season, the beach, upon the proper use of which 

 no restriction exists, being the principal attraction. Pure water, 

 which is carried to the island from our well at the park, is a 

 most valuable adjunct to the enjoyment and refreshment of 

 thousands of people who avail themselves of the privileges 

 thus afforded at public expense. 



