A ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrated the completion of upgrades to John Jay Park last week. Several city representatives, including Manhattan Borough Commissioner for NYC Parks & Recreation Tricia Shimamura, Council Member Julie Menin, Assembly Member Rebecca Seawright, and Community Board 8 members, gathered to unveil the $1 million renovation.
According to NYC Parks, the project included the reconstruction of the “MPPA, a large open area with basketball and tennis courts.”
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The courts now have a brand-new color seal for durability, and an ADA compliant ramp with a railing was added to make the court area more accessible for everyone in the neighborhood. The central walkway was rebuilt and now has new benches and a drinking fountain.
At the event, Parks Commissioner Shimamura said, “John Jay Park is a true neighborhood gem, and these improvements underscore our dedication to fostering a welcoming, safe, and inclusive environment for everyone in the community.”
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Council Member Menin, who spearheaded the project’s funding, added “As the Council Member for one of the most densely populated districts in the city with the one of the least amount of open space, I’m proud to have allocated $1 million during my first year in office to revitalize and enhance the multi-purpose play area for all visitors to John Jay Park.” In her post on X / Twitter about the ceremony Menin added, “It’s critical to invest in our green spaces.”
This week was proud to cut the ribbon at John Jay Park w/ @NYCParks and @CB8M. As Council Member for one of densest @NYCCouncil districts, I’m proud to allocate $1 million to renovate play areas, pool deck & bring vital ADA upgrades. It’s critical to invest in our green spaces.🌳 pic.twitter.com/Wa9zrNAyRS
— Julie Menin (@JulieMenin) September 19, 2024
These latest projects come after a major renovation to the John Jay pool deck, which was completed this May, just before the start of pool season. That upgrade included replacing lifeguard chairs, pool ladders, and drinking fountains, as well as installing a new pool deck. The deck features a design resembling a beach ball, created with colored concrete.
Named for the late 18th century New York Governor, John Jay Park sits between 76th and 78th streets along the East River. The land was originally acquired by the city in 1902, which then built a public bathhouse on the site. The playgrounds officially opened in 1913, and the pool was added in the early 1940s. In addition to the pool, playgrounds, and tennis and basketball courts, the park also has handball courts, picnic benches and seating areas.
