Intrepid Re-Opened for Business

New York’s Intrepid Air & Space Museum officially re-opened for business on Saturday for the first time since September 31, 2006.  The grand opening on Saturday morning was marked by a ceremonial ribbon cutting attended by: George Fertitta, CEO of NYC & Company; Connie Fishman, CEO of Hudson River Park Trust; Intrepid officials and former crewmembers.  An evening fireworks display was scheduled across the Hudson River.  In a symbolic “salute” to the Intrepid, the amphibious assault ship, USS Bataan (LHD 5), along with more than 1,000 Sailors and Marines, arrived in New York last week to be on hand for the festivities.

The entire project – which also included the complete rebuilding of Pier 86, the refurbishment of 16 historic aircraft on board, the redesigning and installation of a new Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum, and an inside-and-out paint job for the 65-year-old aircraft carrier – cost approximately $115 million and took less than two years.

About the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum

One of the world’s largest maritime museums, the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum is housed aboard the 900-foot-long ESSEX class aircraft carrier Intrepid, which saw service during World War II, the Cold War, and the Vietnam War. It also served as a prime recovery vessel for NASA during the Mercury and Gemini space programs before it was retired in 1974. Four years later, Zachary Fisher established the Intrepid Museum Foundation for the sole purpose of “saving the Intrepid for generations to come.” Listed in the National Park Service’s National Historic Landmark register, the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum was opened as a symbol of peace and education in August 1982. The Intrepid underwent extensive renovations for nearly two years and returned to its home at Pier 86 in October 2008.  Prior to leaving its home on the Hudson River at West 46th Street, the Intrepid attracted more than 750,000 people each year from around the world, from children to senior citizens and world leaders.  It also hosted more than 150 special events, and served as a focal point during New York’s annual Fleet Week celebration. The Intrepid produces a wide range of public programming, and is recognized worldwide as an historic icon that makes history come alive for visitors through its unforgettable series of dynamic and interactive exhibits.

For more information, and to purchase tickets visit www.intrepidmuseum.org

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