Mayor Eric Adams and the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation Commissioner Sue Donoghue announced over the weekend that more than 100 projects paused due to COVID-19 will resume construction this spring.
According to a press release, a total of $417 million will be invested in these efforts to break ground on 104 NYC parks—a 142% increase in park construction than in 2021.
More than 86% of the 100+ projects will implement sustainable features such as rain gardens, on-site stormwater capture, LED lighting, use of recycled materials and more. In addition, 62% of projects will be constructed in underserved neighborhoods.
Mayor Adams spoke about the importance of green spaces in our community, “nurturing our physical, mental, and emotional health,” and how this effort will make NYC parks and playgrounds more accessible and sustainable. New Yorkers can expect to enjoy these spaces as soon as summer 2023.
“The pandemic lockdown proved just how important parks and open spaces are to all New Yorkers and we couldn’t be happier to move forward on more than $417 million in capital projects that update, improve, and rethink our parks and playgrounds for the community members who rely on them,” said Parks Commissioner Donoghue.
The weekend announcement was made at Saratoga Park in Brownsville, where a $2.2 million renovation has begun on the playground. The park hasn’t received an upgrade in more than 20 years. After renovations, the space will include all new swings, lighting, a tot play area, a spray shower, and lawn restoration.
.@NYCMayor and @NYCParks announce over 100+ projects paused during the #COVID19 pandemic are moving into construction this spring.
Mayor Adams and Commissioner Donoghue broke ground on a $2.2 Million Saratoga Playground Renovation on the Brownsville/BedStuy Border. pic.twitter.com/WdwdS1wdxD— NYC Mayor's Office (@NYCMayorsOffice) March 13, 2022
These exciting improvements will take place across all of the boroughs between the next 12-18 months.
“I look forward to a spring full of shovels in the dirt across Queens, as we broaden our network of sustainable spaces of recreation and relaxation for all our families, especially those in historically underserved communities,” said Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr.
Find out more information here.