By Angelica Acevedo
The Frank Principe Park in Maspeth will undergo a $6.8 million, year-long renovation, made possible by City Councilwoman Elizabeth Crowley (D-Glendale), beginning this fall.
According to Crowley’s office, the park has not received upgrades since the 1980s. The city Department of Parks and Recreation, however, unveiled the final renovation plans as of June 30.
“Over the years, I have heard complaints from countless residents frustrated with the conditions of their fields,” Crowley said. “In 2014, we secured the funding for a total renovation and now we have the design that will benefit families right here in the community for generations to come.”
Crowley held several visioning sessions with the local community so that residents could weigh in on the park’s design, ultimately deciding on soccer and softball fields.
Other renovations include opening up a new entrance along Maurice Avenue, improving the existing comfort station entrance, reconstruction of the perimeter fences, and enhancement of site amenities such as bleachers and water fountains.
Queens Parks Commissioner Dorothy Lewandowski thanked Crowley for the allocations and mentioned some of the history behind the park’s name.
“Frank Principe Park honors a community leader who fought for open space in Maspeth,” Lewandowski said. “We’re proud to continue Frank’s legacy by collaborating with the community on this great design.”
Community Board 5 District Manager Gary Giordano also thanked Crowley and added that once the park is completed it will “give children and teenagers an excellent athletic field and honor Frank Principe, who did wonderful community work to benefit Maspeth and other communities.”
