Wondering how Terrace Playground got its unique name? This tiered playground offers fun for everyone. Let’s explore its history together.
Terrace Playground in Staten Island has a fascinating story. The City of New York acquired this property in 1951. That same year, the Board of Estimate assigned the land. It would be jointly operated by Parks and the Board of Education. Since then, the futures of the playground and the school have been intertwined.
Originally, it was named P.S. 35 Playground when it opened in 1953. In 1986, Commissioner Stern changed the name to Clove Valley Playground. This matched the neighboring school. But the Commissioner changed the name again on September 25, 1996. It became Terrace Playground. This accents the most striking feature of this property’s design.
Terrace Playground has three tiers. They are cut into the adjoining hill. These tiers form terraces. They are designed for use by different age groups. Plantings separate them. Stairways connect them. This offers children a sense of both privacy and continuity. The top tier is for the youngest children. The bottom level is for the oldest. The lowest level also serves as the school’s playground.
Terrace Playground is bounded by Foote Avenue, Howard Avenue, and Martha Street. When it opened, the playground featured basketball and handball courts. It also had shuffleboard and game tables plus slides, swings, and see-saws. A later renovation installed a sand pit. A comfort station and benches were added. Bike racks and a shower basin were included. The area was generously planted with trees and shrubs.
Today, the lowest level includes half-court basketball courts. You will also find kickball and dodge ball areas. A maypole and a map of the United States are painted on the grounds. In a tradition that stretches back to the school’s founding, P.S. 35 holds a May Day event every year. It’s on the lower level of Terrace Playground. The middle level offers three full basketball courts. The topmost level features monkey bars and a jungle gym. Swings and slides are there too. A shower basin, benches, a flagpole, and a drinking fountain are all available.
Students at Wagner College adopted Terrace Playground in 1997. They have volunteered here ever since. They clean the playground and sponsor events. In October 2000, they organized a contest. PS 35 students answered the question: “What should the playground look like?” They did this in essays and drawings. One item from the winning essay would be built on the grassy knoll.
In 1997, Borough President Guy Molinari funded new play equipment. He also funded handball courts and safety surfacing. Structural improvements were made too. This was a $161,000 renovation. At that time, a plaque was added. It commemorates the 1953 construction of Terrace Playground.
Terrace Playground has evolved over the years. It continues to serve the community. It is a testament to the importance of play. The playground offers a safe and engaging space for children of all ages.
Now, as you explore Terrace Playground, remember its rich history. Notice the thoughtful design of the tiers. Consider the generations of children who have laughed and played here. This unique playground offers a special experience. It connects the past with the present. It’s a place where memories are made and childhood dreams take flight.