BEDFORD-STUYVESANT — Herbert Von King Park could get an upgraded dog run if the proposed project garners enough votes to receive taxpayer dollars.
The plan is among 11 other proposals that locals can vote on in Bedford-Stuyvesant and northern Crown Heights as part of City Council District 36’s participatory budgeting process.
It’s the first year residents in the central Brooklyn district can help decide how city funds will be spent in the neighborhood, with a total of $1 million allotted by Councilman Robert Cornegy up for grabs.
Locals as young as 14 have from March 26 through April 3 to vote on their favorite projects, which include new security cameras at the Albany Houses, new surfaces for basketball courts in Brower Park, and a dance studio at P.S. 3.
One $650,000 proposal would transform the dog play area at Von King Park into a dog run with separate places for large and small dogs, along with new fencing, dog water fountains, and proper drainage.
Budget delegate Rochelle Ross, who said it was her first time involved in the process, introduced the idea after speaking with other dog owners who sought improvements to the park.
“I gained knowledge about the New York City budgetary process and how fiscal resources are used to solve community needs, and create change,” Ross said, adding that she witnessed “community members’ voices being amplified.”
Other projects on the ballot include a variety of educational resources, such as smart boards for five area schools, new laptops for P.S. 59, and science carts at Bedford Stuyvesant New Beginnings Charter School.
Voters can also choose from street safety proposals, including a $300,000 plan to install curb extensions at Marcy and Myrtle avenues.
Residents can cast their ballots at nine locations throughout Bed-Stuy and Crown Heights, as well as at Brooklyn Borough Hall.
For more details on the voting spots and projects, visit the City Council website here.
