The Tony D'Aplito Recreation Center, formerly known as the Carmine Street Public Baths, is at the center of a preservation debate following recent plans by the city's Parks Department that could lead to its demolition. This historic building, which opened in 1908, is a significant part of New York City's architectural and cultural heritage, located within the Greenwich Village Historic District Extension 2, designated by the Landmarks Preservation Commission in 2010.

The recreation center is a prime example of the city’s commitment to public health and hygiene during the early 20th century, constructed as part of a broader initiative to provide bathing facilities at a time when many homes lacked running water. Over the years, it has evolved from a public bathhouse to a recreational facility, serving the community for nearly 120 years.

Architecturally, the building showcases Colonial Revival style, featuring red brick and limestone details, with minimal alterations since its last major construction phase in 1929. The center retains many original materials, including the distinctive Guastavino tile arch system. Its outdoor pool, funded by the Works Progress Administration in the 1930s, has become a beloved community resource, attracting visitors from across the city.

The center is also culturally significant, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community, highlighted by a mural painted by artist Keith Haring in 1987. This connection to the neighborhood's heritage has prompted local and state preservation organizations to advocate for the building's protection, emphasizing its historical importance and the need to preserve such landmarks for future generations.

As discussions continue regarding the future of the Tony D'Aplito Recreation Center, the community remains engaged, underscoring the building's role as a vital public space and a testament to Greenwich Village's rich history.