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Basketball Courts Revamped at Highland Park, As Park Undergoes $40 Million Overhaul

Basketball courts at Highland Park have been upgraded (Photo: NYC Parks/Daniel Avila)

July 5, 2019 By Shane O’Brien

Queens politicians cut the ribbon on four newly reconstructed basketball courts in Highland Park on Wednesday.

The revamped courts feature new asphalt and color coating, replaced curbs and fencing, and new ADA compliant stairway rails. The courts now also boast new pavement, benches, bike racks and a drinking fountain.

The $955,000 project was funded by Council Members Rafael Espinal and Robert Holden in conjunction with Mayor Bill de Blasio. Espinal was joined on Wednesday by NYC Parks Queens Borough Commissioner Michael Dockett and community members to officially open the courts.

“Four years ago, I made a commitment to the children of this community that I will work to get them a state-of-the-art basketball court in Highland Park,” said Espinal. “Thanks to the help of NYC Parks, I am excited to share that we got it done. I look forward to continue the work in completing all other projects we have invested in, for all Brooklynites and for Highland Park.”

Dockett said that the new courts at Highland Park would serve the community for decades to come and act as a hub for recreation.

The redevelopment of the courts was the first of several projects in the works at Highland Park, which will cost nearly $40 million in total.

The Parks Dept. is already working on the lower playground, where new play equipment and seating is scheduled to be added by the end of the summer.

The reconstruction of the Ridgewood Reservoir Gatehouse is also anticipated to be completed by September, while the redevelopment of the overlook area near the stone bridge is slated for an October completion. The project incorporates new benches and lighting.