“Underserved for over 20 years.” That’s what they said about this space before Almeda Playground got its incredible makeover. Today we are standing at Almeda Playground. This isn’t just any playground. It is a symbol of community investment and revitalization.
Almeda Playground, located on Beach 66th Street, has become a treasured resource in Arverne. The playground’s reconstruction was completed in May 2021 after an $8.1 million investment. This transformation was made possible by the Community Parks Initiative. Mayor Bill de Blasio funded this initiative.
The renovation includes many upgraded features. There is now a more inclusive play area. An outdoor classroom provides space for learning. Spray showers offer a fun way to cool off. Adults can enjoy the fitness area. Basketball and handball courts are also available. Shaded seating areas provide a place to relax. The community requested enhanced greenery, and the project delivered.
Queens Borough President Donovan Richards grew up nearby. He noted that all children deserve access to first-class play spaces. The Community Parks Initiative succeeded in creating such a space at Almeda Playground.
Elected officials emphasized the renovation’s importance. This is especially true after children and seniors spent a year indoors. Councilwoman Selvena Brooks-Powers understands the need for safe spaces. She noted that children can exert energy and make new friends. The renovated Almeda Playground offers a park system for all families.
NYC Parks Commissioner Mitchell Silver oversaw the project. He helped cut the ribbon at Almeda Playground. Under his leadership, the agency invested over $419 million in Queens parks. Of the capital projects completed, 209 are in Queens.
The Community Parks Initiative aimed to create a more accessible park system for all New Yorkers. Commissioner Silver prioritized ensuring access to quality parks. These underused spaces were transformed into community assets.
Before the renovation, Almeda Playground had not seen significant investment in over 20 years. The city invested $318 million in renovating 67 parks across all boroughs. These parks had not seen improvements in decades.
Councilman Richards emphasized that the project recognized the importance of neighborhood kids. He thanked community members who attended scoping meetings. Almeda Playground is next to PS 42. The renovated park serves both students and the entire neighborhood.
Patricia Finn, Principal of PS 42, noted that the goal is to provide families time together. Eric Peterson, Rockaway Administrator of NYC Parks, said the updates made everything ADA accessible. Community members shared their vision for the renovation plans.
The children were excited about the new playground. They wanted to know when they could play. Today, Almeda Playground stands as a testament to what community engagement and investment can achieve.