A Flushing park’s playground has a fun new face after a round of renovations.
The revamped playground at Bowne Park, an 11-acre space bounded by 29th and 32nd avenues and 155th and 159th streets, was unveiled to the public on Aug. 29. The park’s $2.45 million total upgrade project has been in the works since July 2014 and city officials broke ground on the project in October 2016.
The $1.5 million playground improvement includes treehouse-inspired equipment for kids ages 2-5 and 6-12; an expanded spray shower system with a turtle theme in a nod to the park’s native wildlife; painted games; new swings; and fully renovated basketball courts. New benches will also soon be installed throughout the park.
“It was great to stand with our borough president, the Parks Department and our community as we cut the ribbon to unveil the incredible changes and bright future for this wonderful park,” said Councilman Paul Vallone, who allocated funding for the project. “Bowne Park has always been a gem in North Flushing and these wonderfully inspired upgrades will ensure the park can be enjoyed by children and their families for years to come.”
Nearing completion is the renovation of the Bowne Park Field House, which includes plans to achieve energy efficiency and ADA compliance. It is expected to reopen in the fall.
The park’s pond will also be refurbished and receive a new filtration system. This project is currently in the design phase, according to Vallone.
“Bowne Park’s new playground and the future work still to come will revitalize this space and turn it into a jewel in which this neighborhood can take pride,” Queens Borough President Melinda Katz said. “While the park has always been an oasis for generations, it has had its share of neglect. Now, thanks to the commitment of Council member Vallone and the Parks Department, North Flushing will have a better park to better serve the growing families of North Flushing.”
Queens Parks Commissioner Dorothy Lewandowski, Community Board 7, the Bowne Park Civic Association and the Broadway-Flushing Homeowners Association were also present for the Aug. 29 celebration.
