“Rubber Park” rings a bell does it not? Today we are visiting John J. Carty Park also known as Rubber Park. This park’s story is more intriguing than its location might suggest. Nestled under the Verrazano Bridge feeder ramps, John J. Carty Park offers more than meets the eye.
Let’s dive into the past. The park’s history is intertwined with the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge. The Triborough Bridge and Tunnel Authority developed both concurrently. This was all thanks to a 1956 federal grant. Opened in 1964, it was renamed in 1971. The park got its nickname “Rubber Park” for an interesting reason. It was one of the first city parks with rubber matting under the play areas. This was a safety innovation at the time.
But who was John J. Carty? He was a Bay Ridge native. Carty dedicated 32 years of his life to New York City government. He lived only five blocks from the park. It is important not to confuse him with the engineer John J. Carty.
As you look around, notice the layout of John J. Carty Park. It is a series of spaces for different activities. Some might say that the best greenery is just outside the park’s northern end. Also worth noting is the monument to Giovanni da Verrazano.
The park offers a range of facilities for everyone. There are play areas for kids. These include tot swings and climbing frames. Older visitors can enjoy basketball and tennis courts. The Fort Hamilton Senior Center is also located in the park. It provides recreation rooms, a library and a computer lab. The senior center has been a lively gathering place since 1967. It was established under the TBTA’s neighborhood improvement plan.
While John J. Carty Park may have faced challenges with upkeep, local efforts have made a difference. Bay Ridge Cares, a local charity organization, hosted a “JJ Carty Spruce Up!” event. They painted benches and added colorful game boards. Fresh paint and bright colors hopefully encourage more people to enjoy this neighborhood resource.
John J. Carty Park is more than just a park. It is a testament to community and innovation. From its rubber matting to its senior center, it serves a diverse range of people. The park stands as a reminder that even in the most unusual locations, green spaces can thrive.