“End Place.” That is what Ranaqua means in the Reckgawank Algonquin language. Today, we are at Ranaqua Playground in the Bronx. It is a place of joy. It is a place where kids come to play. But the name has deeper roots. It refers to the peninsula sold to Jonas Bronck in 1639.
Ranaqua Playground has seen significant improvements. In 2018, a $3.5 million renovation transformed this space. The Department of Environmental Protection partnered with NYC Parks. Together, they reopened Ranaqua Playground. It is one of 17 Community Parks Initiative projects in the Bronx.
Before the renovation, there was only a worn basketball court. There was also a patchy field. Now, Ranaqua Playground boasts a synthetic turf field. Kids can enjoy a spray shower on hot days. New ADA-accessible play equipment includes toy drum features. Swings and safety surfacing ensure fun for everyone.
Green infrastructure helps manage stormwater runoff. A rain garden and permeable pavers capture water. The synthetic turf field also aids in water absorption. Flood-tolerant plants add beauty. These features capture up to 99,000 gallons of stormwater per rain event. The DEP invested $50 million in green infrastructure. This reduces sewer overflows and improves air quality. It also lowers summertime temperatures.
NYC Parks Commissioner Mitchell J. Silver said the kids of Mott Haven use this playground every day. Especially the students at Mott Haven Academy Charter School enjoy it a lot. They play football on the new turf. They cool off in the spray shower. The community now has the quality playground it deserves.
Council Member Diana Ayala attended the reopening. She mentioned the importance of capital investment in the area. Saw Mill Park is next on the list for improvements. The Community Parks Initiative targets investments in densely populated neighborhoods. These neighborhoods have higher-than-average poverty rates.
Ranaqua Playground also features new lighting. There are new seating areas. You can find drinking fountains and game tables here. A bike rack encourages cycling. Trees and greenery have been added.
The playground’s renovation reflects a commitment to community. Mary Bellini from Mott Haven Academy Charter School said the improvements will positively impact the community. She hopes it will be a symbol of leadership for the neighborhood.
So, remember Ranaqua Playground’s name. It means “End Place”. But it also represents a new beginning. It is a place where kids can play. It is a green space for the community to enjoy. It is a testament to the power of investment. It is a great place for the neighborhood.