Beneath these unassuming trees lies a story. It is a story etched in stone and whispered by the wind. Welcome to Detective Joseph Mayrose Park a place of community. It is a green space with a deeper meaning than meets the eye.
This park honors Detective Joseph Mayrose. He was a dedicated police officer. He was also a loving husband and father. Born and raised in Brooklyn, Mayrose dedicated his life to service. He attended Saint Anselm’s grammar school. After that, he graduated from Bishop Ford High School. The High School is located across the street from this very park.
At Bishop Ford, Mayrose enrolled in a police trainee program. He joined the police force right after graduation. A member of the 72nd Precinct in Park Slope Mayrose rose to the rank of Detective 3rd grade in 1981. People remember him as a dedicated and efficient officer.
Tragedy struck on June 1 1989. Mayrose died in a car accident while driving home to Staten Island. The community mourned the loss of a true hero. To honor his memory, this park was named Detective Joseph Mayrose Park in 1990. Councilman Stephen DiBrienza sponsored the local law. Community Board 7 requested it. On July 27 1990 a ceremony formally dedicated this park to Mayrose.
Detective Joseph Mayrose Park is more than just a place to relax. The locals also call it the “Dog Park”. It is a hub for the South Slope community. Its central location across from P.S. 10 makes it ideal. For years, it has been a place for play and leisure. Into the Future is a community project. They are working to reimagine Mayrose Park. They want to transform it into a civic space. It should effectively represent public values. Kids are studying the park. They sketch designs of their visions. They think about what the park could be in the future.
Here in Detective Joseph Mayrose Park, HomeGrown serves the community garden. They act as a liaison with the Parks Department. They administer the garden’s membership rules and allotment assignments. There are 19 garden plots at the community garden. Community gardeners may continue to tend their assigned allotments year to year. They must abide by the Rules for Mayrose Community Gardeners. Plots do become available periodically. However, there is a waiting list.
So, as you wander through Detective Joseph Mayrose Park remember Joseph Mayrose’s dedication. Reflect on his service. Think about his sacrifice. This park is a living tribute. It is a place where the community comes together. It is a reminder of a life well-lived. It stands as a symbol of service and sacrifice.