20/08/2024 | Press release | Archived content
A $2.5 million mayoral investment at Noonan Playground added a new dog run, upgraded seating areas, and new plantings to bring a comfortable new greenspace to Queens.
Brand-new Maspeth Park features vital fitness, rest, and recreation amenities following a $17.8 million project
On Monday, August 19, NYC Parks Commissioner Sue Donoghue, New York City Councilmember Julie Won, and NYC Parks Queens Borough Commissioner Jacqueline Langsam joined members of the Queens community to cut the ribbon on the renovated Noonan Playground and to celebrate completion of the brand-new Maspeth Park.
"With these new and improved greenspaces in Queens, we're providing parkgoers and their four-legged friends with relaxing and engaging public spaces to connect with their neighbors and the great outdoors," said NYC Parks Commissioner Sue Donoghue. "Thanks to $2.5 million in funding from the Office of the Mayor, we've equipped Noonan Playground with a brand-new dog run, improved seating, and new tree plantings, ensuring this beloved space can continue to serve the community for decades to come. At Maspeth Park, Queens residents are getting an entirely new greenspace with a basketball court, skate plaza, and fitness equipment, expanding park access for New Yorkers. At Parks, we remain committed to creating and maintaining welcoming, accessible spaces for rest and relaxation for all New Yorkers."
"The new Noonan Playground Dog Run and Maspeth Park give our neighbors access to safe, beautiful, and local outdoor spaces. I'm thrilled to celebrate the opening of these long-awaited parks, which would not be possible without our combined advocacy with the community," said Councilmember Julie Won. "Parks and green spaces are crucial for our neighbors' health, vitality, and happiness. Thank you to the Mayor's office and New York State Department of Transportation for a combined $20.8 million in funding, NYC Parks, former Councilmember Jimmy Van Bramer, and the Friends of Noonan Park Dog Run for collaborating to make these projects a reality."
"Attractive, modern parks are crucial for enhancing the livability of New York City's communities as they provide vibrant and accessible spaces," said Queens Borough Commissioner Jacqueline Langsam. "We are excited to celebrate the transformation of Thomas Noonan Playground and the creation of Maspeth Park, which both symbolize our commitment to creating essential community spaces citywide. Thanks to the investments from the Mayor's Office and the New York State Department of Transportation, these parks will continue to be cherished focal points for fun, fitness, and relaxation in Queens for generations."
Thanks to a $2.5 million mayoral investment in Noonan Playground, the community greenspace now includes a brand-new 1,500 square foot dog run, including water fountains, as well as upgraded seating areas with benches throughout the park, new tree plantings, and additional lighting for Sunnyside residents.
Bounded by Greenpoint Avenue and 42nd Avenues and 47th and 43rd Streets, Noonan Playground was named for war hero Thomas P. Noonan. Noonan Playground is a neighborhood fixture, and its updated amenities ensure it will continue to serve as a vital neighborhood hub for Queens residents for generations to come.
The new Maspeth Park was created on an underutilized acre of land thanks to a $17.8 million investment from the State of New York Department of Transportation. The new greenspace features fitness amenities, a skate park, a basketball court, and night-time lighting with bleachers, which will make this park a vibrant place for Queens residents to build community and get exercise. The park is within walking distance from surrounding residential neighborhoods, including Sunnyside and West Maspeth.