Big Bush Playground

NYC PARKS CELEBRATES CONSTRUCTION IN PROGRESS AT WOODSIDE’S BIG BUSH PARK

NYC Parks Commissioner Mitchell J. Silver, FAICP, today joined Queens Borough President Melinda Katz, and Council Member Jimmy Van Bramer to break ground on a $1.8 million reconstruction of the playground and spray shower in Woodside’s Big Bush Park.

The goal of this project is to reconstruct the paved areas in the north end of the park to better accommodate both active play and passive recreation; to upgrade the play and spray shower equipment; and to increase the amount of green, permeable surface area in the park.
“We look forward to re-opening the park next spring complete with upgraded play equipment, a fun spray shower feature, and a more welcoming entrance – bringing to fruition the community’s vision for this space,” said Commissioner Silver.

“Significant renovations are underway at Big Bush Park to its playground, adult exercise equipment, game tables and more, all to be further enjoyed by the growing families of Woodside,” said Borough President Katz. “The design plans for the Big Bush Park project were in no small part due to the comprehensive input from the community, and is a perfect example of how residents can have a significant impact in beautifying our neighborhoods."

“Big Bush Park is a great place in Woodside to sit outside with family and friends, play sports, and get some fresh air,” said City Council Majority Leader Jimmy Van Bramer. “But anyone who has used it recently knows it needs some work. That’s why I’m thrilled to join Parks Commissioner Silver, Borough President Katz, and members of the community to break ground today on a full $1.8 million renovation that will bring exciting new amenities for the first time in decades. I’m proud to have allocated nearly $1 million to this project that will bring new swings and game tables for kids, drinking fountains for all to stay hydrated, and exercise equipment and smoother running surfaces to stay fit. I look forward to returning next Spring to open a park the residents of Woodside can be proud of, and that will be enjoyed for years to come.”

The community was actively involved in shaping this project, and the scope of renovations largely reflects their input. New site elements will include benches, game tables, swings, play equipment for tots and older children, painted games, and adult exercise equipment. Safety surface will be provided underneath play equipment and exercise equipment. The reconstruction will provide new asphalt and concrete pavements.
New trees will be planted to provide shade and new shrubs will be planted to enhance the play areas. A new shaded lawn will be provided and existing trees will be pruned and fertilized. New fences will enclose the play areas and protect plant material. Lighting will be improved by installing new LED luminaires and two existing fixtures will be relocated. A new spray shower area will be installed with sprinklers that kids can activate themselves, as well as a drinking fountain. The existing drainage system will be reconstructed to promote proper drainage.
The project is funded with $1 million from Borough President Katz and $800,000 from Council Member Van Bramer. Construction began in May 2017 and the park is expected to reopen in April 2018.
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