WOODSIDE — Construction is underway at Big Bush Park as the city undertakes a $1.8 million overhaul of the green space that will include all new playground equipment, game tables, drinking fountains and spray showers that kids will be able to turn on themselves.
The Parks Department and elected officials held a groundbreaking ceremony Tuesday for the project, though work officially started in May. The renovations will keep the park's playground area closed for about a year, but the ballfields will remain open, a spokeswoman said.
The green space — located along 61st Street between Laurel Hill and Queens boulevards — hasn't seen new amenities in decades, officials said.
The work will also include new benches, water fountains, exercise equipment for adults, as well as the planting of new trees, shrubs and a shaded lawn.
Fences will be also installed around the play areas, and the park's lights and drainage system will be replaced, officials said.
The project is being paid for with $1 million allocated by Borough President Melinda Katz and $800,000 from City Councilman Jimmy Van Bramer.
The playground is expected to reopen in April 2018, officials said.