Seized by the city, Macri Triangle emerged in 1946. It was born from land claimed after the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway construction. The expressway’s arrival demolished buildings. This also extended Meeker Avenue south.
Today we stand at Macri Triangle. It is a small park where Meeker Avenue meets Union and Metropolitan Avenues. This 0.57-acre space offers a slice of green in Williamsburg Brooklyn. These triangular parcels became public plazas. They were too small for development.
In 1971, the City Council honored Luigi A. Macri. He was a Williamsburg resident. They named this site Macri Square after him. Macri was a dedicated member of the American Legion Post 1751.
Inside Macri Triangle stands a World War II memorial. The American Legion Post 1751 maintained it. This memorial honors local men who made the supreme sacrifice. Many names are Italian. They reflect the neighborhood’s past.
Once, a bocce court thrived here. It signified the Italian-American presence. Now, it is overgrown a sign of changing times. The Friends of Macri Triangle Park are working to revive it. They want to restore this beloved space.
Locals are asked to join efforts. Their goal is to fix up the dilapidated bocce court. New plantings offer a glimmer of hope. The park faced neglect for decades.
Assemblyman Joseph Lentol secured funding in 1990. This was to build the bocce court. Fewer people play bocce now. The demographic is moving elsewhere. They seek cheaper rents in Long Island.
Once described as well-kept, Macri Triangle declined. It was seen as uncared for. Yet, efforts continue to revitalize this space. Despite its challenges Macri Triangle remains. It is a testament to community history. It also stands for the enduring spirit of Williamsburg. As we leave, remember Luigi A. Macri. He dedicated service and the local heroes honored here.