Insults & Intrigue at Community Board 8 Meeting

Even after the two candidates for chairperson called for civility and a return to rule-following for Community Board 8, last night’s meeting devolved into a tense and emotional shouting match over the intentions of the Parks Committee versus the wants of the community in calling for improvements to John Jay Park. Read more

Park for Seniors Faces Cuts or Delays

By Patrick Wall

The Parks Department hopes to transform an unused corner of John Jay Park into the city’s first senior-friendly outdoor area

“Parks aren’t just playgrounds for kids,” said Peggy Price, co-chairperson of Community Board 8’s parks committee. “They can be centers for health and fitness for adults, at no cost.”
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Senior Park Needs Clear Label

To the Editor:

I think a Senior Park at John Jay Park is a very nice idea (“At John Jay Park, You Must Be This Old To Enter,” July 15). However, a comment in the story about the name of the park containing “nothing that says seniors or older people” caught my eye and got me to thinking. Read more

At John Jay Park, You Must Be This Old to Enter

By Dan Rivoli

The Upper East Side, recently declared the best place in America to retire, may get more senior friendly.

The Parks Department is considering a plan to designate a section of John Jay Park just for seniors, possibly a first in the city.

The southeast corner of the park, which is between East 76th and 78th streets by the East River, next to the bathhouse, would be transformed into a senior citizens’ playground. Instead of jungle gyms and ball fields, older folks could use low-impact exercise equipment, play on checker and chess boards, go to an outdoor yoga class, or just read in quiet. Read more

‘River’s Edge’ Theme for Playground

After numerous requests from the surrounding Upper East Side community, the playground at John Jay Park is getting a facelift.

The design includes new equipment, a different ground surface and fresh shrubbery. All entrances and equipment will be accessible to visitors with disabilities, complying with the Americans with Disabilities Act. The playground will have a “rivers’ edge” theme that includes a ship’s prow, wavy decks, slides, bridges and a track ride, a zip line-type device. The facility will also offer a large climbing net and a play rowboat. Read more