Floyd Bennett Field, Hangars 1 and 2, Historic Structure Report

URS Corporation

Hangars 1 and 2, located in Floyd Bennett Field, Brooklyn, New York, are two of eight original airplane hangars along Flatbush Avenue that were constructed in 1931. These eight hangars are collectively known as Hangar Row. Floyd Bennett Field is part of Gateway National Recreation Area, which is owned by the National Park Service. Since they were first constructed, Hangars 1 and 2 have evolved through additions and modifications, including construction of lean-tos on both hangars and an infill building between the hangars during the WPA era. Over the course of research for this project, it was discovered that a wood-framed monitor structure in the former light court of the WPA Infill had been constructed during World War II. This circumstance is unique to the hangars at Hangar Row. The hangars have been vacant for several years, with the exception of periodic storage of NPS and concessionaire property. Degradation of the roof and windows has exposed the interior of the structures to the elements. Consequently, Hangars 1 and 2 are in poor condition. Hangars 1 and 2 are contributing resources within the Floyd Bennett Field Historic District, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The National Register nomination was updated and accepted in 2001 to include an extended period of significance of 1928-1945. The period of significance for Hangars 1 and 2 is the same. This historic structure report (HSR) is a documentation and planning document in advance of an adaptive reuse project proposed at Hangars 1 and 2. A potential lease agreement is being considered for the hangars.