Envisioned in 1999 by Mayor Rudolph Giuliani and Borough President Claire Shulman to revive the park , the original concept of a moderately sized pool was enlarged to an Olympic-size pool with an indoor ice rink as well . The building 's foundation was completed in 2001 but after the September 11 attacks the project was halted due to funding issues . Finally , in 2003 , the Natatorium was designated as the swimming arena in New York City 's bid to host the 2012 Summer Olympics . The Parks Department partnered with the Economic Development Corporation and plans re-commenced for New York City to build its first public indoor swimming pool in 40 years . Upon its completion in February 2008 , the Flushing Meadows-Corona Park Natatorium and Ice Rink became the largest recreation complex ever built in a city park at 110,000 square feet
September 11 attacks
September 11 attacks
Flushing Meadows Natatorium