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 process.

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.