The city of New York has announced a $50m programme of park improvements that will focus on park entrances, edges, and spaces adjacent to parks.
Parks Without Borders aims to make city parks an integral part of their surrounding neighbourhoods by dissolving boundaries such as fences and integrating them with adjacent streets for mutual benefit. Suggested improvements include: widening or removing entrance gates; adding benches, tables and other furniture; creating better views into the park to improve safety and connectivity; setting up regular programmes of local activities; repairs to paving; increasing and improving planting
‘Parks Without Borders will open parks to users, weave green space into neighborhoods, and create a flowing, welcoming public realm,’ said parks commissioner Mitchell J Silver. ‘Thanks to mayor de Blasio’s One NYC funding for this major placemaking initiative, we will positively transform New Yorkers’ experience of public space.’
Members of the public and community groups are invited to nominate local parks and add their suggestions for improvements via the Parks Without Borders website. Consultation closes at the end of February and eight initial projects will be announced in the spring.
