Council Bill Proposes Increased Safety and Responsiveness Requirements for Tree Risk Management

On September 14, 2023, New York City Council Member James Gennaro introduced Int. 1169 to set stricter safety standards, timelines, and procedures under the Department of Parks and Recreation’s Tree Risk Management Program. The bill amends Local Law 20 – passed by the City Council on January 9, 2022 – that governs tree inspection and health assessments by the Department of Parks and Recreation. Pursuant to Local Law 20, a member of the general public … <Read More>


Parks Dept and Elected Officials Celebrate Completed Renovations of Jamaica Playground

On September 27, 2023, the Parks Department joined Council Speaker Adrienne Adams and Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr., Assemblywoman Vivian Cooke, members of Queens Community Board 12, and students from P.S. 40 Samuel Huntington Elementary School to celebrate the completed renovation of Jamaica Playground in Jamaica, Queens. The playground is located on Brinkerhoff Avenue between 160th Street and Union Hall Street. 



DOT and DCC announce Pedestrian Safety Improvements in Jamaica

On August 10, 2023, the New York City Department of Transportation and Department of Design and Construction announced the completion of their pedestrian safety improvements in Jamaica, Queens. The goal of the pedestrian safety improvements is to create a more inviting space for residents to enjoy Downtown Jamaica and reduce the amount of car crashes resulting in serious pedestrian injury in the area.


Monsignor Kett Playground Reopens After $9.5 Million Renovation

On July 26, 2023, Parks Department Commissioner Sue Donoghue, NYC Department of Transportation Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez, Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine, Assembly Member Manny De Los Santos, Council Member Carmen De La Rosa, and Community Board 12 joined community members to cut the ribbon on the renovated Monsignor Kett Playground in Inwood, Manhattan. The project—which required $9.5 million in funding from the Mayor’s Office—is the largest reinvestment the City has made in this open space.