Beneath the Queens sky, Lawrence Virgilio Playground is more than just swings and slides. It’s a testament to community spirit and a tribute to a local hero. Lawrence Virgilio Playground sits within the larger Windmuller Park. The park itself has a rich history, dating back to its namesake, Louis Windmuller. He was a prominent civic leader and businessman who enjoyed summers on this very land until his death in 1913. The city acquired the land from the Windmuller family in 1936, opening Windmuller Park to the public the following year. Over the decades, the park evolved, merging with Doughboy Park in 1959 when 54th Street was closed to traffic.
Lawrence Virgilio Playground, nestled within this green space, honors a true hero. Lawrence Virgilio, a New York City firefighter, tragically lost his life on September 11, 2001, at the World Trade Center. This playground, where he spent his childhood days, was dedicated to his memory in 2002. He served with Squad 18 in Greenwich Village for 12 years, earning two citations for bravery. Imagine him, a young boy, playing on these very grounds, unaware of the hero he would become.
The playground has seen several renovations over the years. In 2007, a $2.1 million upgrade brought new features, including an open-air stage, a renovated ADA-accessible restroom, a mini-pool, and exercise equipment. More recently, in 2022, Councilmember Julie Won secured $7.1 million for another significant renovation. This project included new play equipment, sprinklers, improved lighting, and refurbished handball courts. The investment underscores the community’s commitment to preserving this vital space for future generations. Lawrence Virgilio Playground continues to be a vibrant hub, a place where children’s laughter echoes the memory of a local hero.