$5 Million Overhaul of Martin Luther King Jr. Park Begins in Central Harlem

HARLEM, NY — Kids looking for a new place to play in central Harlem are going to have a new $5 million destination to call their own. The Department of Parks and Recreation broke ground last week on a completely remade Martin Luther King Jr. Park.

The park, on Lenox Avenue between 113th Street and 114th Street, is part of the Martin Luther King Jr. Towers. The upgrades are part of the city's Community Park Initiative (CPI), which is spending $258 million on remaking 60 parks in the city. Four million dollars for the remake comes from the CPI budget, while $76,000 came from Parks Without Borders and $900,000 came from the New York City Department of Environmental Protection.

Construction on the new park is expected to be completed in late 2017, according to the Parks Department.

The Martin Luther King Jr. Playground was originally opened in November 1947 and includes two full-length basketball courts, handball courts, and a toddler play area. The new park will feature a host of upgrades, including a new water play area, comfort station, separate play areas for 5 to 12 year olds and 5 and under, and a new adult fitness area. The playground is also getting a new eastern entrance near Building 7 and a new entrance near Building 5, as well.

"We are fortunate to have this safe haven in our neighborhood for some green, peace and fun. The next Michael Jordan can come out of these courts, where friends are often made and dreams can be realized," Congressman Charles Rangel said in a statement. "I thank the NYC Parks for investing in the future of our youths and improving the quality of life for the people of Harlem. Dr. King himself would be proud to see our children play together and adults enjoy community life in such a beautiful park."

Abraham Lincoln Playground in Harlem is also among the parks getting an upgrade as part of the CPI overhaul.

Photo Credit: NYC Parks Department / Malcolm Pinckney