The renovated court at John Jay Park. Image Credit: NYC Parks/Malcolm Pinckney.
On September 17, 2024, New York City Parks Manhattan Borough Commissioner Tricia Shimamura along with other critical stakeholders celebrated a newly renovated multi-purpose play area and pool deck at John Jay Park in Manhattan with a ribbon cutting.
The renovation of the multi-purpose play area cost $1 million and was funded by Council Member Julie Menin. This project included the installation of a new ADA-accessible ramp and railing, rebuilding the central walkway, adding new benches and a drinking fountain, and painting a fresh color-seal coating onto the basketball and tennis courts.
The reconstruction of the pool deck and other pool-related expenses cost $1.2 million and was funded by New York City Mayor Eric Adam’s team. The deck includes new drains, tile depth markers, and railings. Other pool-related expenses included new lifeguard chairs and pool ladders, new drinking fountains, and benches. Planter pots were placed around the pool area to beautify the environment. The pool was opened as part of the Work Projects Administration (WPA) project between 1940 and 1942.
John Jay Park was named in honor of former New York governor and statesman John Jay (1745-1829), the first Chief Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court. Other aspects of the park include playgrounds for children of all ages, handball courts, and sitting areas overlooking the East River.
New York City Parks Manhattan Borough Commissioner Tricia Shimamura said, “John Jay Park is a true neighborhood gem, and these improvements underscore our dedication to fostering a welcoming, safe, and inclusive environment for everyone in the community. Thanks to the support from the Council Member and the Mayor, this recently completed work enhances accessibility, beautifies the park and elevates the quality of life for park users.”
Council Member Julie Menin said, “As the Council Member for one of the most densely populated districts in the city with the one of the least amount of open space, I’m proud to have allocated $1 million during my first year in office to revitalize and enhance the multi-purpose play area for all visitors to John Jay Park. This capital project will contribute to the mental and physical health of our city’s residents as community parks are a critical asset for creating sustainable and livable cities. I thank Manhattan Parks Commissioner Shimamura and the Parks Department for completing this project in an expeditious manner.”
By: Chelsea Ramjeawan (Chelsea is the CityLaw intern and a New York Law School student, Class of 2025.)