New playground equipment at Kelly Park Playground. Image Credit: NYC Parks/Daniel Avila.
On October 22, 2024, New York City Parks Commissioner Sue Donoghue, New York State Senator Simcha Felder, and members of the community celebrated the unveiling of the newly reconstructed Kelly Park Playground. Kelly Park Playground, located at Ave. S, Moore Pl. between East 16th Street and East 17th Street in Brooklyn, is named after Brooklynite William E. Kelly. Born. Kelly, born in Brooklyn in 1872, served as county postmaster and Clerk of Kings County before he died in 1929.
The park reconstruction improves ADA accessibility to the public and adds vital amenities through two projects. The first project cost $10 million and was funded by State Senator Felder. The project included new play equipment, including spray showers, slides, climbers, and winding paths that could be utilized by children of all ages and abilities. In addition, a sandbox with toy fossils and playtime stations which will allow children to explore music and colors was added. To provide an inviting atmosphere, landscaping improvements included new trees, plantings, benches, and lighting were also added to the park.
The second project was a reconstruction of the park’s public bathroom which added accessibility features. The project cost $1.6 million and was funded by the Office of the Mayor.
New York City Parks Commissioner Sue Donoghue said, “Thanks to this transformational project, Brooklynites of all ages and abilities can enjoy a beautifully renovated play space with something for everyone, from interactive spray showers to hidden fossils waiting to be discovered. All New Yorkers deserve engaging and well-maintained public parks where they can meet with friends and enjoy the benefits of time outside. I’m so grateful to State Senator Simcha Felder for funding this important project and for his longstanding support for accessibility in our public spaces. I’m also grateful to Mayor Eric Adams for funding a complete renovation of the public restroom, making the park experience more comfortable for all.”
State Senator Simcha Felder said, “A long time ago, I started talking to people about having a park in Brooklyn where every child, regardless of their different abilities, has a place to play, explore, and grow. Today, a little more than a decade later, I am filled with joy to celebrate the opening of Brooklyn’s only Dream Park for All Children! This $10 million investment isn’t just about creating a beautiful space. It’s about creating a sense of belonging. It’s about ensuring that every child in Brooklyn—and indeed, every child in New York City—can experience the joy of childhood, the thrill of adventure, and the warmth of community.”
By: Chelsea Ramjeawan (Chelsea is the CityLaw intern and a New York Law School student, Class of 2025.)