Willowbrook Park is one of the most popular of Staten Island’s parks, and soon it will get even better as NYC Parks is looking to expand sports and recreation offerings in the park by way of a new sports facility.
NYC officials are looking for “creative and comprehensive proposals that would create a year-round facility primarily for sports-related uses like soccer, tennis, pickleball, or other sports and recreational interests.”
The proposed concession will be located at the site of Willowbrook Park’s former tennis courts, which have been closed since 2014 due to environmental-related deterioration. The proposing concessionaire would be agreeing to a 20-year term and must include a year-round sports and recreation facility and possibly even a clubhouse.
The Parks department will hold a remote meeting on Wednesday, January 18 at 3p.m. for potential applicants, and all proposals must be submitted no later than Wednesday, February 15 at 3p.m.
Proposals require an operational plan, which must include the intended use of the facility, hours of operation, provided service, and any plans to install energy efficient appliances. Staffing plans, a list of proposed pricing, and landscaping maintenance plans must all also be included. All the included information would be subject to approval by the department.
“Willowbrook Park is an integral part of Staten Island’s Greenbelt and an oasis for active and passive recreational pursuits,” said NYC Parks Commissioner Sue Donoghue. “Willowbrook Park’s former tennis courts are an ideal location for a brand-new year-round sports and recreation facility to appeal to all Staten Islanders.”