A colorful new gateway has been completed at the entrance of Marsha P. Johnson State Park in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Located at the park’s Kent Avenue and North Eighth Street entrance, the gateway cost approximately $2.3 million to complete and is the culmination of a multi-phase revitalization project.
Born 78 years ago, Marsha P. Johnson, a transgender woman of color, is considered a pioneer of the LGBTQ+ civil rights movement. The park, named in her honor, and its new gateway are intended to communicate her vibrant spirit that lives in the memory of the people she fought to protect.
Formerly known as East River State Park, the seven-acre park was renamed in Marsha P. Johnson’s honor in February 2020.
“Marsha P. Johnson was a pioneer who took a stand for justice, fought for equal rights, and ultimately altered the trajectory of New York State history,” said New State York Governor Kathy Hochul. “This new gateway entrance will allow visitors to pay tribute to her contributions to this state and country while enjoying the greenery of Brooklyn and sweeping Manhattan skyline views.”
Preliminary aerial rendering of the new Marsha P. Johnson State Park
Previous improvements now open to the public include extensive new landscaping, an expansive new lawn, permeable pathways, and a site-wide stormwater management system to improve drainage throughout the park.
The park also features a series of permanent interpretive panels documenting Marsha’s lifework, the Park House for educational and community programming, and public restrooms.
“Marsha P. Johnson State Park is a monument to Black, queer, and trans liberation; it is a tribute to beauty and nature; and it is a reminder that our work to create a Brooklyn for all is ongoing,” said Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso. “I am excited that today this beautiful park gained an equally joyous gateway. Thank you to New York State Parks for making this tribute to Marsha P. Johnson even more special.”
It’s estimated that around 1.6 million people visit the commemorative park each year.
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