On April 22, 2025, New York City Parks Commissioner Sue Donoghue, alongside other key stakeholders, announced upcoming improvements to the Lt. Michael R. Davidson Playground in Sunnyside, Queens. The New York City Council is funding this $4.8 million project.
The project aims to transform the vacant Phipps Playground into a public playground. This project includes adding new play equipment, installing a spray play area, providing public seating along 39th Avenue, installing game tables and picnic tables, and installing a new a public restroom within the existing historic shed. There will be firefighter-themed play panels and installation of a flagpole honoring the memory of Lt. Michael R. Davidson, who died fighting a five-alarm fire in Harlem in 2018.
The new playground will occupy the site of the original Phipps Playground which was available to Phipps Garden Apartments residents until the 1990s. Phipps sold the property for $1.45 million in 2007 to its previous owner, DBH Associated LLC. The land was unused until New York City Parks purchased it in September 2019.
New York City Parks Commissioner Sue Donoghue said, “Our public spaces reflect our values as a city, and it is an honor to name this new public playground after Lt. Davidson, commemorating his sacrifice and his service to the community. This park will provide New Yorkers of all ages and backgrounds with a safe and inviting space to connect with one another and take in the fresh air. Here in the same lot where Lt. Davidson once played as a child, the new memorial flagpole and firefighter-themed play equipment will carry on his legacy for generations to come.”
By: Chelsea Ramjeawan (Chelsea is the CityLaw intern and a New York Law School student, Class of 2025.)