Veterans Grove

VETERANS GROVE REOPENS WITH NEW PLAY EQUIPMENT, MONTHS AHEAD OF SCHEDULE

NYC Parks Queens Borough Commissioner Dorothy Lewandowski today joined Queens Borough President Melinda Katz, Council Member Daniel Dromm, students from St. Bartholomew Academy, and local community members in Elmhurst, Queens, to celebrate the reopening of Veterans Grove after a $2.3 million reconstruction project. The scope of work included a full makeover of the park and surrounding sidewalk, and was completed months ahead of the expected timeline.

“From the colorful new play area to the dog run, and even extending to the perimeter sidewalk – every inch of Veterans Grove has been upgraded to better serve the needs of this growing community,” said Commissioner Lewandowski. “And below the park’s surface, we’ve installed important infrastructure to help aid in storm water management, making this space both aesthetically pleasing and a working part of the community.”

“Veterans Grove is a playground treasured by the growing families of Elmhurst, and we’re delighted to re-open it today in time for the summer,” said Borough President Katz. “NYC Parks deserves to be commended for this wonderful multi-million dollar renovation, nearly a year ahead of schedule.”

"Veterans Grove Playground is now a crown jewel of Elmhurst thanks to this multi-million dollar renovation," said NYC Council Member Daniel Dromm (D-Elmhurst, Jackson Heights). "The $1.5 million I have allocated for new playground equipment and other infrastructural improvements will ensure that Veterans Grove Playground continues to serve Elmhurst families for generations to come. I am proud to bring even more quality green space to my district, something essential to the health and well-being of any community. Improving our parks and playgrounds will always be a top priority of mine."

The benches, fencing, play equipment and pavements that formerly occupied the site were all removed to make way for updated amenities. New steel play equipment, swings and fencing were installed as well as a new spray shower area for use during the summer months and quiet sitting areas for those who enjoy passive recreation. The park’s dog run was upgraded, including a new drinking fountain which will serve humans and their canines. Finally, the sidewalk surrounding this triangular park was re-laid and bicycle racks were installed.

Important storm water management infrastructure was added to the site to help alleviate soil erosion. Parks installed a number of underground chambers and pipes to capture rain water and divert overflow from the City’s storm water system, and new plantings will further aid in containing storm water. The entire project was funded with $1.5 million from the City Council, $175,000 from the Borough President, and an additional $550,000 from the Mayor.

Construction began in June 2016 and completed in March 2017, approximately 9 months ahead of schedule.

This playground is dedicated to the memory of those soldiers from Elmhurst who lost their lives serving in World War I and includes a plaque honoring these veterans. The park was established in 1928.