Last week, NYC Parks, NYC DCC, and other partners unveiled a $41 million newly renovated greenspace in the Bronx, better known as phase two of Starlight Park’s expansion.
The 2.7 acres were previously home to industrial property that has since been transformed into new public space and greenway expansion that closes the former gap in the Bronx River Greenway.
“This is a momentous step forward for public greenspaces in the Bronx,” said NYC Parks Commissioner Sue Donoghue. “This investment has done more than transform a paved industrial property into a beautiful public park with new amenities for the community. With this project, we have filled in a gap in the Bronx River Greenway, establishing it as the heart of the expansive Bronx greenway network and connecting New Yorkers with their neighbors and their environment.”
According to the Bronx River Alliance, the renovations include: two new pedestrian bridges, four new community access points, and new waterfront parkland. Additionally, the greenspace features a total of 4,000 feet of new paths, landscaping, sitting areas, and a dog run.
In recent years, the Bronx River has improved in health and this project only furthers shoreline re-naturalization efforts.
Phase one of Starlight Park was completed in 2013, a decade before phase two. In those years, 140 new trees and nearly 12,000 new shrubs have been added to help restore the Bronx River shoreline and improve river water quality. Moreover, 50,000 tons of soil was taken out to encourage ecological health.
“Reconnecting the South Bronx and overcoming historic barriers to create access to the beautiful natural resource that is a healthy Bronx River, has long been envisioned,” said Elena Conte, Interim Executive Director of the Bronx River Alliance. “Today, we celebrate how this project knits communities together, creates incredible new parks, and increases resilience against climate change with a naturalized shoreline”
Long-term, phase 2 of Starlight Park provides New Yorkers with greater access to necessary greenspaces while improving the surrounding ecosystem. Learn more about Starlight Park on NYC Parks’ website here.