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NYC PARKS BREAKS GROUND ON $4 MILLION RECONSTRUCTION OF WILLIAM F. MOORE PARK IN CORONA

The beautification project will install a new bocce court and is one of several upcoming greenspace redesigns planned in the neighborhood for a total investment of over $34M

NYC Parks Commissioner Sue Donoghue yesterday joined Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr., New York City Councilmember Francisco Moya, and members of the community to officially break ground on the renovation of William F. Moore Park in Corona, Queens.

This $4.25M project will completely redesign the park to improve accessibility and pedestrian flow, creating a new central plaza space centered around the existing memorial flagpole, which will be restored. The project will also add a new bocce court, improve lighting and security throughout the site, and beautify the space with new greenery.

“For decades, William F. Moore Park has been a beloved community greenspace where New Yorkers can gather for a relaxing game of bocce, take in the fresh air, and connect with their friends and neighbors,” said NYC Parks Commissioner Sue Donoghue. “With this renovation, we’re giving this park the facelift it deserves, with a brand new bocce court, a beautified central plaza, and improved lighting and amenities throughout. We’re grateful to Councilmember Moya and Borough President Richards for supporting this important work, and we look forward to continuing to invest in Corona’s greenspaces, with over $34 million planned for nearby parks in the coming years.”

"William F. Moore Park is one of Corona's most vital community hubs, but one that has been in need of major investment. I'm thrilled to join my partners in government in making that investment, as we work to give Corona families the modernized park space they deserve," said Queens Borough President Donovan Richards, Jr. "In honor of hometown hero William F. Moore and every Corona resident who enjoys his namesake park, let's get to work."

"As someone who has had the privilege of lighting up the trees and leading fitness programs in this park for the last fifteen years, I can honestly say that William F. Moore Park holds a special place in my heart. I walked by this park every day as a child on my way to Lemon Ice King, and to now be part of a project in which I have secured $3.5 million in funding for its transformation is both an honor and an inspiring experience,” said New York City Councilmember Francisco P. Moya. “This revitalization is more than just a set of improvements—it’s about enhancing the heart of our community. At the core of these improvements are safety and quality of life, with a focus on creating a space where families can gather, and children can play with peace of mind. This project reflects our ongoing commitment to creating a space that fosters connection, joy, and a sense of belonging for all—ensuring that William F. Moore Park remains a safe, vibrant hub for generations to come."

As part of the redesign, Parks will install a new bocce court to replace the existing court, which was first installed in the 1980s. The new court will be seamlessly integrated into the redesigned layout to improve pedestrian flow, with new lighting and benches to enhance the bocce experience for players and spectators.

Parks will also ensure accessibility throughout the site by renovating all entrances to be ADA accessible and repaving paths within and around the park. Improved sightlines, new steel fencing and gates, and new security lighting will enhance public safety throughout the park. Additionally, Parks will beautify the space with new ornamental plantings and raised planters with accent lighting.

This project, which was made possible by funding from Councilmember Moya and Borough President Richards, is one of many planned capital projects to renovate parks and greenspaces in Corona, Queens, in the near future. In total, Parks plans over $34M in park renovation projects in Councilmember Moya’s district, including projects that are expected to begin construction soon, such as in Caminiti Park, American Triangle, and Park of the Americas.

The space now known as William F. Moore Park was first mapped as parkland in 1922. In 1929, the park was named to commemorate Wiliam F. Moore, reported to be the first neighborhood soldier killed in World War I. The granite base of the memorial flagstaff commemorates Moore and his valiant sacrifice.