Fifty-five. That’s what the name Double Nickel Playground means. It’s a playful reference to nearby PS 55. But it also hints at something faster. Something with a bit more zip.
Right here in the heart of Staten Island this playground holds a special place. It’s not just a place for kids to play. It’s a piece of history. A testament to the city’s growth. It opened in 1969. City planners envisioned a boom in residents after the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge was finished in 1964. This playground was their solution. A recreational haven for the new families.
Originally it was quite grand. Granite tree pits. Basketball courts. Volleyball courts. Handball courts. Even shuffleboard. Play sculptures and climbing equipment were available. There was even an amphitheater and a drinking fountain. The design was quite ambitious.
Renovations came. Some features were lost. Benches lights swings the amphitheater were removed in 1989. Yet new ones were added. Another renovation in 1996 brought new play equipment and safety surfacing. Mayor Giuliani funded this project. It cost $79,897.
The playground’s layout is fascinating. Walkways and bridges connect the different areas. Honey locusts cedars oaks pines and sweetgums shade the paths. It all flows from a central mound. It creates a sense of community. A small urban escape.
Double Nickel Playground. More than just swings and slides. It’s a story of vision growth change and the enduring spirit of play. A place where generations have laughed climbed and created memories. A true Staten Island treasure.