Skyline Playground

NYC PARKS REOPENS TENNIS COURTS AT SKYLINE PLAYGROUND AFTER $303K RENOVATION

NYC Parks Commissioner Mitchell J. Silver, yesterday joined Council Member Debi Rose, Staten Island Deputy Borough President Ed Burke and community members to cut the ribbon on newly renovated tennis courts at Skyline Playground. Funding for this project was provided by Mayor Bill de Blasio in the amount of $303,000.

“These courts were in rough shape,” said Commissioner Silver. “They hadn’t been renovated in more than 20 years, which is far too long. There were gaps and cracks in the pavement, making it difficult and unsafe to play tennis here. We’re excited to reopen these courts today and hope it encourages Staten Islander’s—even those who haven’t played in a while—to dust off their rackets and take advantage of these courts.”

This project has rebuilt the tennis courts at Skyline Playground, which had not been reconstructed in over 20 years. NYC Parks has reconstructed the damaged curbs, fence, asphalt, and installed a new color seal coating system and new landscaping.

"Staten Island is known as the 'Borough of Parks,' and these upgrades have made it easier for Staten Islanders to fully enjoy the park," said Staten Island Borough President James Oddo. "I'm pleased to see the administration funding projects that help our residents be more active. I encourage all Staten Islanders to pick up a racket and try out the new courts."

“These new courts are not just an investment in concrete and paint, but an investment in a thriving community,” said Council Member Rose. “Skyline epitomizes what a local, community park should be. Here, we not only have newly resurfaced tennis courts, but also a playground and sprinkler, a large grassy area, and open space to enjoy the views of the city. I know my constituents in New Brighton look forward to enjoying these new courts.”

“This ribbon cutting for the renovation of the Skyline Playground tennis courts is especially timely, as the U.S. Open is concurrently taking place and is shining a spotlight on tennis in New York City,” said Assemblyman Matthew Titone. The location of these courts is especially apt, as Staten Islander Mary Ewing Outerbridge first brought tennis to the United States in 1874 from Bermuda and set up the first tennis court just down the hill from this location.”

"Staten Island is the Borough of Parks,” said Congressman Dan Donovan. “It's always exciting to see new projects move forward to allow our community to continue experiencing nature right here at home."

Last year, NYC Parks cut the price of adult annual tennis permits from $200 to $100. To register for a permit, visit https://www.nycgovparks.org/preview?id=3507. Tennis season runs April through November, with roughly 500 NYC Parks tennis courts across the five boroughs.

Skyline Playground takes its name from its breathtaking view of the Manhattan skyline. A portion of Skyline Park stands 206 feet above sea level, making it one of the highest parks in the city.