Imagine the laughter of children echoing through the air. You’re standing at Travers Park, a vibrant hub in Jackson Heights, Queens. This isn’t just any park. It’s a testament to community spirit and urban recreation.
Travers Park spans two acres. It offers a green escape amidst the city’s hustle. Named after Thomas J. Travers, a local leader, it was dedicated in 1949. The park quickly became a focal point for the neighborhood.
In the mid-1990s, Travers Park underwent a significant makeover. Neglected areas transformed into flourishing green spaces. Friends of Travers Park played a crucial role. They maintain the plantings and offer community input.
Expansion efforts began in 2007. A portion of 78th Street became a play street in 2008 and 2009. This was a collaborative effort by local organizations. The goal was to create more pedestrian space. In 2012, a section of 78th Street was permanently closed. It became a pedestrian plaza. This added 10000 square feet to Travers Park.
NYC Parks acquired a 24600-square-foot play yard from the Garden School in 2013. The children’s playground was renovated. It became ADA-compliant. It is designed for children aged 5 to 10.
But not everything went smoothly. The opening of a Mazda dealership sparked controversy. Plans for a car-free zone on 78th Street were altered. A 200-foot section remained open for dealership access.
In June 2022, one of the handball courts was converted into a dog run. This caters to the needs of local dog owners.
Travers Park has basketball and tennis courts. There is a children’s playground and restroom facilities. You can find handball courts, a dog run and picnic tables. A bicycle rack, benches, tables, and a lawn complete the park.
The basketball courts got a makeover in 2023. Borough President Donovan Richards allocated over $1 million for the renovation.
Across 78th Street is Rory Staunton Field. It’s a .57-acre space. It was a former school yard of The Garden School. It was transferred to the Parks Department in 2013. It honors Rory Staunton, a local resident who died from sepsis.
Travers Park is more than just a park. It’s a community hub. It hosts the Jackson Heights Greenmarket on Sundays year-round. Since 2004, it has been home to Summer Sundays in the Park. This is a performance series with diverse music.
You might see bicycle riding or cricket games here. Maybe baseball, softball, soccer, or tennis. Basketball and handball are also popular. There is a space for toddlers and waterworks. Tables invite you to play checkers or chess.
As part of the Paseo Park plan, Travers Park is envisioned as the neighborhood’s green core. It serves a diverse population. People from various cultures gather here.
Travers Park stands as a testament to what a community can create. It’s a place for recreation, relaxation, and connection. It’s a vital part of Jackson Heights.