June 10, 2014

Ribbon Cutting: Washington Square Park Comfort Station

Commissioner Feniosky Peña-Mora joined NYC Parks and Recreation Commissioner Mitchell J. Silver to cut the ribbon on a renovated set of amenities at Washington Square Park, celebrating the third and final phase of the park's $30.6 million restoration.

The multi-phase project included a renovated and accessible plaza, restoration of the main fountain, expanded lawns and new planting beds, an enhanced playground, a stage, pétanque courts, a dog run, a new chess plaza, as well as improved seating areas, fencing, light poles and paths. On the south side of the park, a comfort station, designed by BKSK Architects, provides office space for the Department of Parks and Recreation as well as restrooms for the public. Featuring photovoltaic panels, sustainable materials, and a geothermal system, the comfort station is on track to receive LEED Platinum certification.

“Washington Square Park is one of New York’s best-known public spaces. The new comfort stations, play areas, dog run, and maintenance facilities will support all of the park’s many uses for generations to come,” said DDC Commissioner Peña-Mora. “What’s more, these new, environmentally-friendly amenities for park-goers are arriving just in time for summer. We look forward to continuing our work with the Parks Department to implement Mayor de Blasio’s vision to create more sustainable City buildings and bring our neighborhoods closer together.”