By Sadef Ali Kully
NYC Parks Commissioner Mitchell Silver and elected officials broke ground in Jamaica’s Rufus King Park on Monday to begin a $2.2 million renovation project.
The project will reconstruct the park’s gazebo, including electrical service as well as a new roof, handrails, steps and a brick platform. Funded by the City Council, the Borough President’s office and the Mayor’s office, the project is expected to be completed in Spring 2016.
“NYC Parks is pleased to break ground on improvements to the historic Rufus King Park,” said NYC Parks Commissioner Silver. “Jamaica’s residents will be able to enjoy a renovated and revitalized open space with a new gazebo that will serve as a beautiful gathering place for this diverse neighborhood.”
In addition to the new electrical service for the gazebo, the park’s asphalt pathways will be repaved and reconfigured to improve pedestrian circulation. A new lawn, trees and shrubs will be planted throughout the park as well. A reconstruction of the park’s spray shower will include new decorative colored concrete pavement and spray fixtures as well as improved drainage.
“Rufus King Park provides vital green space to thousands in the community,” said Councilman Rory Lancman (D-Hillcrest). “These renovations enable neighborhood children and families to enjoy an improved park for years to come.”
Borough President Melinda Katz, Councilman Lancman and District Manager of Community Board 12 Yvonne Reddick joined community members in the gathering at the historic Jamaica park.
King Manor Museum and Park was once the home of Rufus King (1755-1827), a distinguished lawyer, statesman, and gentleman farmer. King was a delegate to the Constitutional Convention in 1787, an abolitionist, and made his most famous contribution to American history as a framer and signer of the Constitution.
King Manor and Park are designated New York City landmarks, and the King Manor Museum is open on a regular basis for tours, educational programs and community events. Since 1987, the King Manor Museum and Park has gone through three major projects costing an estimated $8 million, according to the Parks Department.
Reach Reporter Sadef Ali Kully by e-mail at skull
