Nautilus Playground

NYC PARKS CUTS THE RIBBON ON THE NEWLY RENOVATED NAUTILUS PLAYGROUND IN SOUTHEAST QUEENS

$5.8 million capital project added new play equipment, upgraded the nautical-themed spray shower, and constructed a brand-new plaza with seating

NYC Parks Commissioner Sue Donoghue was joined by Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr., Council Member Nantasha Williams, other elected officials, and members of the community to celebrate the completion of a $5.8 million reconstruction project at Nautilus Playground inside Roy Wilkins Park in Queens.

“Thanks to these exciting new renovations, Nautilus Playground will continue to enchant Queens community members of all ages for generations to come with its charming aquatic theme, enhanced play and fitness equipment, and new neighborhood plaza,” said NYC Parks Commissioner Sue Donoghue. “Playgrounds are a vital necessity for connecting with friends, building community, and staying active. This reconstruction is just the latest example of our commitment to provide safe, accessible public spaces in all five boroughs.”

The $5.8 million capital project upgraded the playground with a brand-new plaza surrounded by benches. A new spray shower area has been enhanced, with colored concrete pavement, a nautilus motif in a sea of blue, and new fish-themed ground spray features for younger children. The project also renovated the play area with new children’s play equipment, swings, a circuit training station for older teens, and a separate space for adult fitness equipment.

The project was funded by the Office of the Queens Borough President and New York City Council.

“The scars of systemic disinvestment are evident across Southeast Queens, especially when it comes to park space. But with the gorgeous new Nautilus Playground, revamped in partnership with the Parks Department, we’re flipping that script and investing in local families who deserve a healthy place to play and bond,” said Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. “Thank you to everyone who made this $5.8 million project a reality and I look forward to seeing kids from across Southeast Queens enjoying the new equipment for years to come.”

"Investing in our community spaces is an investment in our shared future. The renovations of Nautlius playground not only transforms a physical space, but also ignores a sense of hope and excitement among us all. It symbolizes our commitment to fostering a vibrant, connected community where families thrive, and memories are made,” said Queens Council Member Nantasha Williams. This revitalized playground is not just a recreational area; it's a testament to our collective dedication to creating an inclusive environment where everyone regardless of age and background, can come together, play, and forge lasting bonds."