STONE HARBOR – With two borough playgrounds at the end of their useful life, Stone Harbor is in the process of designing new replacement playgrounds at 97th and 82nd streets. The existing outdated equipment that also showed the negative impact of years of salt air exposure has already been removed. While these two playgrounds undergo their transformations, the public is encouraged to explore Chelsea Park at 105th and 106th streets between Second and Third avenues.
Borough plans call for starting with the transformation of the popular 97th Street playground where a new state-of-the-art inclusive playground will mean engaging activities and accessible equipment for children of all ages.
The 82nd Street playground will follow with play trend and fitness equipment, which the borough hopes will make the area a destination playground for the entire community. For summer 2024, plans call for outdoor games and activities while playground design is completed and equipment procured.
Stone Harbor Council discussions indicated that the two playground areas would have very limited use in 2024. The new equipment and area transformation would be complete for 2025. The latest information is that some elements of the new playgrounds may be available in 2024, but the likelihood remains that 2025 will mark the first availability of new equipment.
The borough encourages the public to “stay tuned” as plans unfold. The community can be kept updated with schedules and information on the borough website.
Contact the author, Vince Conti, at vconti@cmcherald.com.
