The Kingsbridge Heights community has reason to celebrate as the city unveiled a renovated Strong Street Playground, marked by a $3.04 million reconstruction project.
The official ribbon-cutting ceremony took place on Tuesday, July 1, featuring NYC Parks Commissioner Iris Rodriguez-Rosa, alongside Council Member Pierina Ana Sanchez and Assembly Member Jeffrey Dinowitz, among other community leaders.
Rodriguez-Rosa expressed enthusiasm about the playground’s transformation, stating, “We’re excited to complete the reconstruction of Strong Street Playground, an important play space for children in the Kingsbridge Heights community.”
She highlighted the addition of all-new play equipment, splash pads, benches, and improved sidewalks, noting the Parks Department’s commitment to enhancing green spaces and recreational facilities in communities that need them the most.
The renovation came with a complete overhaul of the park’s existing amenities while carefully preserving mature shade trees.
Accessibility improvements were made, ensuring that children of varying ages and abilities can enjoy the playground.
Additionally, upgrades to drainage, lighting, and water infrastructure were included to enhance the functionality and longevity of the space.
Funding for the project was provided by the New York City Council and the Bronx Borough President’s office, signifying strong support from local government for community development.
Council Member Sanchez reflected on the historical significance of the site, which has ties to the Revolutionary War, likening it to the modern-day investment in community welfare.
She remarked, “Close your eyes and imagine — it’s the height of the Revolutionary War. General George Washington stands at Fort Four, an outpost built to protect his troops and keep watch over enemy movements.
Fast forward to today, Fort Four still keeps us safe — not with cannons, but through community, care, and investment.
This $3 million investment in Strong Street Playground sends a clear message: our community matters.
We deserve nice things. And we will always fight for more.”
Assembly Member Dinowitz, who grew up just a few blocks away, spoke highly of the improved conditions at the playground, emphasizing the upgrade as a win for local families.
“I am so excited to help celebrate the reconstruction of the Strong Street Playground,” he shared. “This is a hundred times better than it used to be, and I’m thankful the Parks Department did such a great job.”
Strong Street Playground lies within Washington’s Walk, a green stretch that borders the Jerome Park Reservoir.
Historically, the area hosted a fort established during the Revolutionary War under George Washington’s command and later served as the Jerome Park Racetrack, which operated between 1866 and 1894.
In a notable transition, the City acquired the land in 1895, placing it under NYC Parks’ jurisdiction.
Originally opened in 1934, the playground featured basic amenities like swings and seesaws, undergoing previous renovations in 1988 and 1998 to enhance its offerings.
The site honors William L. Strong, who served as the last mayor of New York City before the five boroughs’ consolidation in 1898.
image source from：bxtimes
