Barretto Park

Clutching a smooth, grey stone, a young boy skipped ahead of his mother towards the sparkling water. “Mama, look! A boat with a pool!” he shouted, pointing towards Barretto Point Park. This unique park, nestled in the Hunts Point neighborhood of the Bronx, offers more than just stunning views of the East River. Barretto Point Park is a testament to the city’s ability to reclaim and reimagine forgotten spaces. Once a gritty industrial site, home to a sand and gravel operation and later an asphalt plant, the area underwent a dramatic transformation. In 2001, the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation acquired the property. They embarked on a mission to remediate and cap the land, ensuring it was safe and clean for the community. Barretto Point Park officially opened to the public in 2006. It quickly became a beloved gathering spot for residents. The park is named after Francis J. Barretto, a 19th-century merchant and State Assemblyman who once lived in the area. His legacy lives on in this vibrant green space. The park’s design evokes a rustic atmosphere, a nod to Hunts Point’s past. Visitors to Barretto Point Park can enjoy a variety of activities. There’s a children’s playground, basketball and handball courts, and a waterfront promenade perfect for leisurely strolls. Kayakers and canoeists can launch their vessels directly into the East River, enjoying unique perspectives of the park and the surrounding waterways. From the park, you can see North and South Brother Islands, historic bird sanctuaries that are closed to the public. Perhaps one of the most unique features of Barretto Point Park is the Floating Pool Lady. This 20,000 square-foot barge houses a 25-meter swimming pool, complete with a pool house, locker rooms, and even a children’s spray shower. It has been a popular attraction since it arrived at the park in 2008. Adjacent to Barretto Point Park is the Tiffany Street Pier, another waterfront gem. Once a loading dock, it was rebuilt in 1995 using an innovative material made from recycled plastic bottles. The pier offers spectacular views of the East River and the bird sanctuary islands. Barretto Point Park stands as a symbol of renewal and community. It’s a place where the past and present intertwine, offering a unique escape from the urban hustle and a connection to the city’s rich history.