The Unveiling of “Seaside Strong”

By Juvie Anne Alfeche, RISE Public Programs Coordinator

Folks gathered beneath the elevated A-train tracks at Beach 60th Street on Wednesday, May 6, to celebrate the unveiling of the mural “Seaside Strong.” It is a 180-foot-long public artwork that transforms the demapped roadway into a vibrant reflection of the Rockaways. Led by RISE (Rockaway Initiative for Sustainability and Equity) and Living City Project, and created in collaboration with artists Camila Morales and Ayushi Shriramwar, the mural was developed through a participatory art model that invited the community to help shape and paint the final design.

It all started in 2024, when residents and students were encouraged to contribute drawings and ideas during RISE’s Earth Day Rockaway. Planning for the mural formally began early the following year through outreach campaigns, community engagement, and participatory workshops. Painting sessions took place in May 2025, with professional artists working alongside community members.

The project emerged from a broader effort to reimagine the overlooked pedestrian corridor, under the elevated, as a welcoming public space. “Project Underway” is the name given to the years-long revitalization efforts of the area beneath the subway tracks.

The ribbon-cutting brought together representatives from New York City Department of Transportation, including Angelik Vizcarrondo-Laboy, Neil Gagliardi, Emanuel Evans, and Andrew Arcese, and Mohammed Alharbi from the newly created NYC Mayor’s Office of Mass Engagement.

Morgan Anderson, a high school student in RISE’s Shore Corps program, cut the ceremonial ribbon. Speakers included Jeanne Dupont, RISE executive director, Tanya Gallo and Andrew Meyers, Living City Project cofounders, and Morales. They all emphasized the importance of public art as a tool for community building and neighborhood pride.

“Seaside Strong” is a visual journey through the peninsula, featuring imagery of the beach, the A train, the different neighborhoods, and the bay side. Airplanes soar overhead while whales, birds, surfers, and the boardwalk weave throughout the mural, representing the everyday landscapes and rhythms of coastal life.

Take some time to view the mural when you are down Far Rockaway way!