Revamped Playground and Open-Space Area at 1471 Watson
NYCHA and the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation (NYC Parks) have completed the construction of an upgraded playground and open space area for the community at 1471 Watson Avenue in the Bronx. The revitalized space officially opened in March.
As part of the redevelopment, the outdoor playground and seating area were modernized to include new play equipment, game tables, benches, a water play area, landscaping, and brand-new adult fitness equipment.
The project, which cost $2.5 million, was part of a larger $23 million initiative by the Authority and NYC Parks to upgrade a total of six playgrounds and open spaces at NYCHA developments. The partnership project is part of NYCHA’s Connected Communities program, which prioritizes community-centered urban design and implements innovative partnerships to enhance NYCHA’s outdoor spaces and improve residents’ quality of life.
Additionally, it supports the City’s Walk to a Park initiative, which focuses on increasing access to parks and open spaces, especially in areas of the city where residents live farther than walking distance to a park.
“The Walk to a Park initiative can improve quality of life for NYCHA residents who do not have easy access to public parks where they live,” noted Shaan Mavani, NYCHA’s Chief Asset and Capital Management Officer. “We are extremely grateful to partner with NYC Parks to complete work at another property – 1471 Watson – and provide an upgraded playground for almost 100 families.”
