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Read the press release here.

Apply Now for Permit to Use Governors Island Ballfields This Summer

By Irene Plagianos | February 5, 2014 5:21pm
 The Island is seeking permit proposals for its ballfields, and for food vendors and event programming.
Call for Summer Permits on Governors Island
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GOVERNORS ISLAND — Batter up!

The permit application process is now open for the new ball fields at Governors Island, which open for the first time this summer.

The two new natural turf fields, which boast picturesque views of the Statue of Liberty and Lower Manhattan, will be open to Little League, adult softball or soccer and other field sports, the Trust for Governors Island said.

Not all requests will be able to be accommodated, and priority will be given to youth leagues and official school leagues, the Trust said on its website. Applications will be taken on a rolling basis but are encouraged to be submitted by March 1. Allotments will be announced soon after that, and any additional applications will be considered on a space-available basis, according to the Trust website.

“We are so pleased to open the permit process today for these two spectacular new fields,” Leslie Koch, president of the Trust, said in a statement. “We look forward to welcoming school groups, youth leagues and others from all neighborhoods all across New York City”.

For the first time this year, summer programs will be able to run seven days a week on the island between May 24 to Sept. 28. The island was previously only open to the public on weekends.

Each of the two new fields has bleacher seating for 84 spectators and will be open during the island's public hours, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekdays and 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekends. Games can be scheduled at either 10 a.m. or 2 p.m., the Trust said.

Those interested in reserving the space must pay a non-refundable $26 application fee, and are encouraged to apply before March 1.

The fields are part of the Island’s newly completed 30 acres of parkland, which also feature a grove of hammocks, maze-like hedges and green space with large, whimsical sculptures. The new parkland gives the island more space than ever to host arts and cultural events and festivals, the Trust said.

More than 200,000 square feet of indoor space, inside nearly two dozen historic homes, will also be available for exhibitions or other programming.

Governors Island has a long history of eclectic events and art installations, like the FIGMENT art festival’s mini-golf course, last year’s Fete Paradiso, a recreation of a turn-of-the century Parisian carnival, and a host of smaller craft fairs, children’s events and exhibitions.

Those interested in hosting events can apply for a permit for a short time or for the entire public season.

There are no site fees for events that are free to the public, though Governors Island may charge a fee to organizations that charge admission. The Trust also charges event organizers if they need extra services, including security and sanitation staff. A more detailed list of costs can be found here.

Food vendors and food trucks can also apply for spots on the weekends or for the whole summer. A weekend food permit costs $600. For more information about the summerlong permit, which requires replying to a request for proposals, head here.

The Island is also offering applications for permits for private events, including weddings. Fees vary; for further details, check out this page. Only wedding ceremonies, not receptions, are allowed on the Island. Permits are $400, and allow for a maximum of 100 guests.