On December 4, 2024, New York City Parks Commissioner Sue Donoghue in collaboration with other critical stakeholders celebrated the renovation of Vinland Playground located deep within Shore Road Park in the Brooklyn neighborhood of Bay Ridge. This project cost the City $3.4 million and transformed Vinland Playground with new playground equipment and improved landscaping.
The new play equipment includes a toddler playhouse and two new swing sets. A new interactive spray shower was installed to help children cool off in the summer. To improve safety a new safety surface was added throughout the playground. New trees, seating, fencing, landscaping, and drinking fountains have been added to the playground as well.
Last year, the City Parks Department invested in this community by opening the new Frank Decolvenaere Dog Run at the south end of Shore Road Park. This $1 million project paid tribute to a Bay Ridge community member who was killed while walking his dog in 2020. The New York City Parks Department reconstructed a portion of the western Shore Road Park pathway. This involved reconnecting path sections that had been disconnected for decades. Earlier this year, the New York City Parks Department reopened the newly renovated John J. Carty Playground. The $5.4 million renovation consisted of the addition of new play equipment and an innovative sensory play feature.
New York City Parks Commissioner Sue Donoghue said, “Bay Ridge residents deserve safe, accessible, and beautiful greenspaces – and that’s what we’re delivering, project after project. With this $3.4 million renovation, we’ve enhanced this playground with engaging and interactive play features, plus new landscaping, seating, and trees that New Yorkers of all ages can enjoy. Between this project and the many investments we’re making throughout Shore Road Park and Bay Ridge with the support of Councilmember Justin Brannan, we’re ensuring that South Brooklynites can enjoy all the mental and physical health benefits of time spent outdoors.”
New York City Councilmember Justin Brannan said, “Growing up, Vinland Playground was like my backyard. Our parks are a top tier public resource and necessity, which is why I’ve been proud to invest over $90M into parks in my district since joining the council. I’m especially proud that my childhood playground, now new and improved, is reopened for use by local kids like me far into the future.”
By: Chelsea Ramjeawan (Chelsea is the CityLaw intern and a New York Law School student, Class of 2025.)