Urgent Report: Flushing Meadows Park Infrastructure Failing Now
UPDATE: A shocking new report reveals that Flushing Meadows Corona Park is suffering from severe neglect and failing infrastructure, a situation that demands immediate attention. The study, titled “The Park Queens Deserves,” highlights years of underfunding, with co-author Jonathan Bowles stating, “The infrastructure is completely underinvested in, and it’s failing.”
This urgent situation is particularly alarming for the hundreds of thousands who rely on this park for recreation in the densely populated neighborhoods of Jackson Heights, Flushing, and Corona. The report outlines deteriorating sports fields, outdated plumbing, and ineffective electrical systems—issues that have persisted for decades since the park’s original construction for the 1939 World’s Fair.
Jonathan Bowles emphasizes the disparity in funding, noting, “This park gets a fraction of the private resources that Central Park and Prospect Park get.” As a result, Flushing Meadows is left more dependent on public funds, which have not materialized in recent years. The park’s ongoing flooding issues, described by Bowles as “appalling,” are a direct consequence of this neglect.
The report underscores Flushing Meadows as a vital green space for community activities such as tai chi, dancing, and picnics, and as a global destination for events like the US Open. However, the park’s current condition threatens its role as a cherished communal asset. Co-author John Surico calls for a comprehensive 10-year plan to revitalize the area.
In response to the urgent findings, the New York City Department of Parks & Recreation issued a statement, acknowledging the park’s significance and their commitment to enhancing it. “Flushing Meadows Corona Park stands as one of the crown jewels of New York City’s park system,” the statement reads, while also noting that the park is currently benefiting from $65 million in flood resiliency projects.
Despite these efforts, the report calls for immediate intervention from the New York City Department of Environmental Protection to address critical water issues. “Because of all of the water issues that are at play here, DEP should really step in,” Bowles insists.
Queens Borough President Donovan Richards is actively seeking innovative funding solutions, including potential partnerships with the New York Mets to open new ballfields. He also mentioned that the proposed Metropolitan Park casino project could provide additional funding for maintenance.
Looking ahead, the report advocates not only for restoration but also for enhancements such as dining and live theater to attract more visitors. “This report was a call for the next mayor to really finally invest in this park,” Bowles stated, highlighting the park’s untapped potential.
As the community awaits action, the call for immediate investment in Flushing Meadows Corona Park echoes louder than ever. This beloved space could be so much more for Queens if given the attention it truly deserves.
