Twisty slides full-court basketball and a unique handball court await. These define Power Playground. But there is more to this park than meets the eye. Power Playground has a fascinating story. Its design draws inspiration from a famous poem. Rainer Maria Rilke’s “The Panther” influenced the park’s layout.
The poem’s text is embedded in the park. Stainless steel letters are set in colored concrete. They mark the park’s center. As Rilke wrote of panthers with “powerful soft strides,” imagine sleek panthers prowling through Power Playground.
But Power Playground is not just about art. It is also about recreation and community. Recent plans aim to give the park a facelift. The center and rear portions are set for renovation. Community Board 18 announced these plans. Sue Ann Partnow is the District Manager.
The proposed changes for Power Playground include a new skate park. There will also be a reconstructed basketball court. These improvements came about after a public scope meeting. The Parks Department Partnerships for Parks hosted it. The meeting explored different ideas. Suggestions included exercise areas and even a pickleball court.
The skate park is still in the design phase. Early talks suggest removing the old bocce court. This would make space for the skate park’s construction. Some residents wanted a dog park. Lighting was also a key concern. Fixing and improving the lighting is important for safety.
Power Playground sits in Flatlands. It is in a mixed-use area. Industrial and commercial buildings surround it. Utica Avenue and Avenue N see a lot of traffic. An MTA bus depot sits in the rear. A hotel and a Department of Sanitation garage are across East 49th Street.
The absence of restroom facilities is also a concern. Residents want restrooms included in the reconstruction. However this type of construction is expensive.
The Office of the Borough President and the City Council are funding the project. They have allocated between $3 and $5 million. COVID-related impacts have caused delays.
Power Playground’s story is about to get even more exciting. The park is set to become an even better space. It will be a space for recreation art and community. As you explore the park, remember “The Panther”. Think of the sleek powerful strides. Embrace the spirit of play and community that Power Playground embodies.