NYC announces new plan to connect Queens green spaces

A new city study seeks the best way to link Queens parks. Photo via NYC Parks

By Rachel Vick

The city is studying the best way to connect parks in Queens and wants your input.

The “Destination: Greenways!” initiative will examine a route linking Flushing Meadows Corona Park through Kissena Park, Cunningham Park, Alley Pond Park and Joe Michaels Mile that will better connect the islands of green.

“Now more than ever, access to quality open space is essential for all New Yorkers,” said Parks Commissioner Mitchell J. Silver. “By creating a continuous path of scenic routes, this project will connect surrounding communities and enhance the pedestrian and cyclist experience in Brooklyn and Queens for years to come.”

The Parks Department and Department of Transportation will engage local communities to find out the best way to connect the green spaces. The community involvement is the key component of the study, said Councilmember Peter Koo, who chairs the Committee on Parks and Recreation.

“The Destination: Greenways! Plan is a great opportunity for our community to get involved at the early stages of planning so that we can begin to outline a master plan,” Koo said.

Transit and park advocates have long dreamed of a link among Queens’ parks. 

A virtual meeting for Queens residents and stakeholders will take place on Monday, Nov. 16 at 6:30 p.m. to introduce the project and provide an opportunity for feedback on the plan to “ensure any gaps in the existing greenway network are filled,” Koo said.