New playground equipment is included in the upgrades to open spaces at the Sotomayor Houses in Soundview. Image Credit: NYC Parks/Daniel Avila
On October 1, 2024, New York City Parks Commissioner Sue Donoghue and other critical stakeholders celebrated the completion of the reconstruction the playground and open space at the New York City Housing Authority’s Sotomayor Houses. This NYCHA property is located in the Soundview neighborhood of the Bronx and was opened in January 1955. It was formally known as the Bronxdale Houses. In June 2010, the complex was named after Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor, who lived there during her childhood. The Sotomayor Houses serve as the home for roughly 3,500 New Yorkers.
The project improved the accessibility of open space on the campus. This $1.9 million project was funded by the Mayor’s Office. The project included installing new ADA-accessible play equipment, water play features, game tables, seating area, and a water bottle filling machine. The project also included new landscaping, security lighting, fencing, and upgrades to the site’s drainage and water supply systems. The New York City Parks Department is responsible for the maintenance and operation of the renovated spaces.
In 2022, the New York City Parks Department and New York City Housing Authority commenced a $23 million initiative to build new open spaces and playgrounds at six New York City Housing Authority housing developments. This project marks the fifth out of the six sites to be completed under the joint initiative. The completed projects included in the $23 million initiative are: Sotomayor Houses, Bronx ($1.9 million), Pomonok Houses, Queens ($3 million), Woodside Houses, Queens ($1.2 million), Redfern Houses, Queens ($9.3 million). The 1471 Watson, Bronx ($2.5 million) project is currently in progress.
New York City Parks Commissioner Sue Donoghue said, “Our City’s public open spaces are vital for strengthening community connections, improving health, and enhancing public safety, as well as providing a venue for play and relaxation. We are thrilled to unveil these playground enhancements at Sotomayor Houses with our partners at NYCHA. We are sure that this revitalized playground will be enjoyed by NYCHA residents and community members alike for many years to come.”
New York City Housing Authority Chief Executive Officer Lisa Bova-Hiatt said, “Open spaces are a bright spot for community members of all ages. From the new playground equipment to the game tables, the Soundview neighborhood of the Bronx has so much to gain from this rejuvenated and versatile outdoor space. We thank our city partners for their dedication to restoring and enhancing this community hub and improving the quality of life for NYCHA residents at Sotomayor Houses.”
By: Chelsea Ramjeawan (Chelsea is the CityLaw intern and a New York Law School student, Class of 2025.)