Image credit: NYC Department of Parks & Recreation.

Upgrades include new swings, sensory play equipment and new pavement. On July 15, 2021, the Department of Parks and Recreation announced the groundbreaking for renovations at Challenge Playground on 251 Street between 61st and 63rd Avenues in Little Neck, Queens. The upgrades will make the playground more accessible and inclusive.

The playground will be reconstructed and will feature new sensory play equipment, swings, and spray showers. The sensory play equipment includes auditory and visual elements that include shadow effects, sounds and textures. New seating, picnic areas, repaved pathways and new trees and plants will also be added. 

The project will be funded by $3 million that was allocated by former Queens Borough President Melinda Katz and with continued support from current Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. Council Member Barry Grodenchik also allocated $75,000 for the project.

The project is expected to be completed by spring 2022.

Parks Queens Borough Commissioner Michael Dockett stated, “We’re excited to break ground on renovations that will transform Challenge Playground into a more inclusive and accessible greenspace. Upon completion, Queens residents and visitors can enjoy enhanced play and integral family-friendly space for recreation and outdoor fun. We’re grateful to Borough President Richards and Council Member Grodenchik for making this upgrade a priority.”

Queens Borough President Richards stated, “This is a great day for the children and families of Little Neck as we break ground on this first-class playground. Children need to have high-quality places to play in order for them to grow and thrive, and the reconstructed Challenge Playground will be such a space. I thank Council Member Grodenchik and the de Blasio Administration for making today’s groundbreaking possible.”

By: Veronica Rose (Veronica is the CityLaw fellow and a New York Law School graduate, Class of 2018).

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