New York City recently completed a $23 million revitalization of nearly three acres of public space across six NYCHA developments in Brooklyn, Queens, and The Bronx. The city’s investment included full playground reconstructions and landscaping improvements at Redfern Houses, Pomonok Houses, and Woodside Houses in Queens; Watson and Sotomayor Houses in The Bronx; and Kingsborough Houses in Brooklyn. After renovation work, the spaces now feature amenities that include upgraded play and fitness equipment, spray showers, seating, and game tables. The completed projects expand park access to approximately 10,000 additional residents.
At Kingsborough Houses in Crown Heights, Brooklyn, two playgrounds totaling 36,000 square feet were outfitted with new play structures, spray showers, benches, and landscaping, along with improved public access. In Far Rockaway, Queens, Redfern Houses saw 50,000 square feet of improvements including new sports courts, play and fitness equipment, and a grilling area. Pomonok Houses in Pomonok introduced Legacy Park, a 13,000-square-foot space featuring sensory play elements, fitness installations, and new seating. Woodside Houses in Woodside gained a 9,900-square-foot landscaped area with benches and game tables for passive recreation.
Sotomayor Houses – Nelligan White Architects
In The Bronx, Watson Houses and Sotomayor Houses in Soundview received upgrades to 9,300 and 9,000 square feet of open space, respectively. Watson’s improvements included a refurbished playground, adult fitness equipment, and shaded seating areas. At Sotomayor, enhancements featured new play equipment, swings, spray showers, and landscaping. All sites were selected in collaboration with residents and are now open to the broader public, collectively placing approximately 10,000 more New Yorkers within a 10-minute walk of a park.
“Today marks a joyful and meaningful moment for the Kingsborough community,” said New York City Councilmember Darlene Mealy. “This new playground is more than just a space to run and play; it’s a powerful investment in our youth, our families, and our future. Spaces like these empower our young people by giving them a safe, vibrant environment to grow, dream, and build lasting friendships. For decades, necessary upgrades were overlooked, and I am proud to stand alongside all who helped make this day possible, as we cut the ribbon on a place that will bring joy and opportunity for generations to come.”
Subscribe to YIMBY’s daily e-mail
Follow YIMBYgram for real-time photo updates
Like YIMBY on Facebook
Follow YIMBY’s Twitter for the latest in YIMBYnews
Need this in Manhattan.