Image credit: NYC Department of Parks & Recreation.
The East Elmhurst playground will be receiving a $4.6 million renovation to accommodate active and passive recreation. On April 8, 2021, the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation’s Commissioner, Mitchell J. Silver, announced the new $4.6 million renovation of the Gorman Playground located at 25th Avenue and 84th Street in East Elmhurst. The project received its funding for renovation from former Council Member Costa Constantinides prior to his departure from office.
Gorman Playground was originally named the Jackson Heights Model Playground but was renamed to honor Denis P. Gorman after his death in 1963. Denis P. Gorman was a community advocate that dedicated his time to providing recreational facilities for Queens’ youths. Gorman was directly involved with the construction of what became Gorman Playground. Gorman also had a political career as he served as the Democratic District Leader of Jackson Heights.
The new renovations will improve the park to allow for engaging in both active and passive recreation. New play equipment will be installed for children of ages 5-12. New equipment includes swings, spray shower, game tables, and benches. The playground will also have new asphalt pathways and plantings installed to better the landscape.
The reconstruction is expected to begin in Fall 2021.
New York City Department of Parks and Recreation Commissioner Silver stated, “Thanks to valuable public input, Gorman Playground will be completely transformed with new and improved amenities that reflect the surrounding community’s vision. We’re thrilled to present these designs to local residents and we are eager to restore this playground for the enjoyment of East Elmhurst’s children, families, and residents.”
Former Council Member Costa Constantinides stated, “Poor planning in the past limited Jackson Heights and East Elmhurst park space, so caring for the parks and playgrounds we have there is critical. That is why I’m so excited that we’ve been able to provide the community with this design for a beautiful new playground that was crafted in partnership with the neighborhood. I want to thank Commissioner Mitchell Silver for his support for all of our community parks.”
Queens Borough President Donovan Richards, Jr. stated, “The creative design unveiled today for Gorman Playground could not have been developed without the extensive and valuable input of residents of the surrounding community. Thanks to their valuable ideas and feedback, their kids will soon be able to enjoy a playground that has been transformed into a top-quality recreational space that will delight East Elmhurst’s children for decades to come. We look forward to seeing this exciting design become reality.”
By: Patrick McNeill (Patrick is the CityLaw intern and a New York Law School student, Class of 2022.)