Lincoln Terrace / Arthur S. Somers Park

NYC Parks And Council Member Mealy Open Eleven New Tennis Courts In Lincoln Terrace Park

On Thursday, August 28, NYC Parks' Brooklyn Parks Commissioner Kevin Jeffrey joined Council Member Darlene Mealy to cut the ribbon on 11 new tennis courts in Lincoln Terrace Park.

"It is fitting to open nearly a dozen new tennis courts in Lincoln Terrace Park today, as right now some of the world's top tennis players are competing in the US Open in a City park," said Commissioner Jeffrey. "Whether you're a star athlete or trying out a sport for the first time, NYC Parks is committed to offering top notch sports and fitness opportunities in all of our city's diverse neighborhoods."

"I am thrilled to have collaborated with the NYC Parks Department, the Lincoln Terrace Tennis Association, and Community Board 8, to bring about this state of the art Tennis Court project to our District, so that going forward the Lincoln Terrace Tennis courts will be the ‘go to’ Tennis Courts for all Brooklynites," said Council Member Mealy. "This will definitely infuse our Crown Heights community and youth with a sense of pride, and esteem that is so needed in our community. The newly renovated tennis courts and other additions will be a stepping stone for positive change in how our youth see themselves, giving them impetus to try this new sport and many other new endeavors, in their quest for success as productive community members and future leaders."

This $2 million project was funded by Council Member Mealy and includes 11 brand new tennis courts, new drainage systems and drinking fountains, as well as a new sitting and event area with benches. The courts include lines for two junior courts to support the popular youth programs that take place here.

This project serves as the catalyst for several upcoming projects funded by Council Member Mealy and Borough President Eric Adams that will mark the renaissance of Lincoln Terrace Park. These include a new building to serve the tennis court area, repaving of the netball courts and multi-purpose play area that make up the nearby Carlos Lezama Courts which will occur in the next year, and the complete redesign and reconstruction of the playground.

Lincoln Terrace Park is one of only two New York City parks named for our 16th president, Abraham Lincoln (1809-1865). The park has long been a haven for the people of Brownsville, Crown Heights and East Flatbush. Renowned authors Alfred Kazin and Elliott Willensky, who grew up nearby, remembered that the park was a favorite spot for hanging out and flirting. Facilities at the park include baseball and football fields, basketball and handball courts, and playgrounds.

Kids can take free tennis lessons at Lincoln Terrace Park with the City Parks Foundation. CityParks Tennis lessons for kids are offered at all skill levels. Opportunities include free beginner lessons, tournaments, leagues, excellence programs and special events. For more information, visit www.cityparksfoundation.org.