A waterfront park in College Point will undergo long-awaited repairs early next year, it was announced.
The seawall at MacNeil Park, located along Poppenhusen Avenue between 115th Street and College Place, will be repaired in the first quarter of 2018. The NYC Department of Parks and Recreation awarded a $4.4 million capital contract to AAH Contractor on Oct. 20 to carry out the project.
The approximately 28-acre, north Queens green space is located along the East River and features kayak and canoe launch sites, handball courts and other amenities.
Councilman Paul Vallone said the urgent need to address the seawall was made clear during meetings with the Coastal Preservation Network, a local nonprofit, and the city Parks Department.
“I look forward to continuing to work with the College Point community so that the dream of a vibrant MacNeil Park with waterfront accessibility is fully realized,” Vallone said.
While state Senator Tony Avella welcomed news of the repairs, he also called on the city to increase funding for the project.
“I am relieved to hear that after all these years of delays the residents of College Point will finally be able to enjoy the full capabilities of MacNeil Park,” Avella said. “Unfortunately, since this is the third contract bidder at a higher cost, some aspects of the original project may not be done. Obviously, we will need the city to increase funding for this project, since the community has waited so long.”
“Parks is now moving forward on finalizing the contract and we look forward to beginning construction this winter,” Queens Parks Commissioner Dorothy Lewandowski said. “Once complete, this esplanade will be a great waterfront amenity for the residents of College Point.”
