QUEENS — Rufus King Park is about to get a $2.2 million makeover, including restoration of its gazebo, play sprinklers, lawns and pathways, the Parks Department said.
Renovations of the 11-acre park, one of the most heavily used greenspaces in the neighborhood, began earlier this month, starting with the replacement of the gazebo's roof, handrails, steps and brick platform, the Parks Department said in a statement.
The project is expected to be completed within a year.
The park's pathways will also be repaved, and new lawn, trees and shrubs will be planted, the agency said.
“Rufus King Park is a neighborhood treasure for families in Queens, and we’re pleased to renovate it for enhanced public use and enjoyment," said Queens Borough President Melinda Katz.
The greenspace will also get an electrical upgrade to accommodate future events, officials said.
As part of the first project, funded by the City Council and the Queens Borough President's office, the park will get a new lawn and trees and shrubs will be planted throughout the park, according to the Parks Department.
The second phase of the project, funded by the Mayor's office, will bring upgrades to the sprinkler area. The pavement will be repainted with colorful designs, and spray fixtures as well as drainage system will be repaired, the agency said.
It was not immediately clear when that phase of the project will be completed.
The project has been included in a recently announced "action plan" for the neighborhood.
