The Parks Issue of Landscape Architect and Specifier News saw many firms submit their projects for feature consideration. Harold Ickes Playground is one of several great projects we are excited to showcase on LandscapeArchitect.com.

This $4.3 million investment has transformed an underutilized asphalt area into a state-of-the-art space for BMX biking and skateboarding, including the first-ever bike repair station and air pumps installed in a Brooklyn park. After remarks, local skateboarder Eric Hernandez "cut the ribbon" by skating through a banner to officially open the skate park.

 

During the design process, Parks met with the skateboarding and BMX communities to gather their vision for the new space. In collaboration with the award-winning skateboard design firm Spohn Ranch, Parks created a state-of-the-art skate park that provides New York's diverse biking and skating community with a dedicated, safe space to practice. In addition to permanent skating and BMX amenities, the renovated 0.77-acre space also includes a bike repair station and air pumps.

Thrill-seekers can safely practice parkour in the dedicated parkour space with safety surfacing, or practice their climbing on a climbing boulder donated by The North Face, with assistance from The Trust for Public Land. The greenspace has also been enhanced with new features that improve the park experience for all patrons. As part of the project, Parks installed new security lighting, accessible bottle fillers, chess and checker tables, and benches. The park's greenery was also refreshed as part of the project, with new landscaping and trees planted to keep New Yorkers cool during the hot summer months.

This project was made possible thanks to $4.345 million from the New York City Council, the Brooklyn Borough President, and the Office of the Mayor. The project was completed ahead of schedule and has been serving the public since its soft opening in early 2024.

To see more Park projects, go to: https://landscapearchitect.com/landscape-articles/call-for-editorial-parks#article1

For more information about submitting a project, go to: https://landscapearchitect.com/research/editorial/editorial-submissions.php