Image credit: NYC Department of Parks & Recreation.
The $2 million transformation project of Redwood Playground was one of 800 projects completed under Commissioner Silver’s leadership. New York City Department of Parks and Recreation Queens Borough Commissioner Michael Dockett unveiled the new renovations and improvements to Redwood Playground in Cunningham Park, located in Fresh Meadows, Queens.
The $2 million project improvements included a reconstruction of the lower children’s play area, improved spray showers with new features, new play equipment, swings, and new plantings for the green spaces. New paths were also installed for better access to Cunningham Park’s comfort station.
The funding for the project came from $355,000 from Mayor Bill de Blasio, $500,000 from Council Member Grodenchik and $1.2 million from former Borough President Melinda Katz. Borough President Donovan Richards has also been providing continuous support.
The project is one of 800 capital projects completed throughout the five boroughs under Commissioner Silver’s leadership. The projects had a focus on creating a more equitable park system. The Agency has helped to make a more resilient park system for all New York Residents.
Commissioner Dockett stated, “Redwood Playground is one of the hidden gems of Cunningham Park and thanks to these new upgrades completed under Commissioner Silver’s leadership, it has been renewed for generations to come. With fun new features including better play equipment and spray showers, this playground will get a lot of love this summer. We’re grateful to all of our partners for their investment and dedication to improving greenspaces for Queens’ families and residents.”
Queens Borough President Donovan Richards, Jr. stated, “Redwood Playground is a vitally important part of Cunningham Park and a treasured community resource for the residents of Fresh Meadows, so I’m very pleased that these exciting upgrades have been completed. The children of Queens deserve first-class play space, and this transformation of Redwood Playground has succeeded in bringing such a space to the kids of Fresh Meadows. It was a great privilege to be a part of making this important project a reality.”
Council Member Barry Grodenchik stated, “During the pandemic, we have learned that accessible outdoor space is a critical component of our recovery. New Yorkers of every age need space to play outside, and our city parks serve that function all year long. The newly renovated Redwood Playground provides a beautiful, safe place for children in Cunningham Park, and I know that many youngsters will enjoy the playground this summer and for years to come.”
By: Patrick McNeill (Patrick is the CityLaw intern and a New York Law School student, Class of 2022.)