After massive damage from Sandy, repairs are underway for the beloved Long Island City site known as “Shady Park” for its signature tall trees.
Andrews Grove, located on 49th Avenue between 5th Street and Vernon Boulevard, had significant damage to its play equipment, safety surfaces, fencing and immense trees. Since Sandy, a large portion of the playground has been fenced off.
According to the Parks Department, the repairs began on Monday. The project includes repairs to the playground equipment, safety surfaces, asphalt and fencing. Depending on the weather, the repairs are expected to take about a month.
“I am pleased that work is currently underway to fully restore Andrews Grove Park in Long Island City,” said Councilmember Jimmy Van Bramer, whose office has secured $10,000 in private funding to help replant the park’s beloved trees.
Local elected officials and the Friends of Shady Park – a group of neighbors advocating for repairs at the site – have been working together with the Parks Department to restore the 2.3-acre park to its original state.
“I am thrilled that the Parks Department listened to our voices and will begin restoring Shady Park to the leafy refuge it was before the destruction of Sandy,” said Senator Michael Gianaris. “Repairing the playground and mending fences are important steps towards restoring this gem in our community.”
According to Sheila Lewandowski, co-founder of Friends of Shady Park, the next step for them is to work closely together to ensure the selection and planting of the trees meets the needs of the community.
“Friends of Shady Park is happy that repairs will finally begin,” she said.
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