In a heartwarming collaboration, the Trust for Public Land, with the generous support of the Brooklyn Nets & New York Liberty Foundation, the Kevin Durant Charity Foundation, and the NYC Department of Environmental Protection, celebrated the grand opening of a newly revitalized schoolyard at the Juan Morel Campos Secondary School in Brooklyn. This transformative project exemplifies the power of community engagement, highlighting the dedication of these partners to create a vibrant, inclusive space that will have a profound impact on the lives of local residents.
A Shared Vision for a Brighter Future
The newly renovated schoolyard is more than just a playground; it’s a testament to the shared commitment of these organizations to provide an environment that fosters growth, education, and well-being. Together, they have worked tirelessly to bring a remarkable transformation to this Brooklyn neighborhood.
Key Features of the Revitalized Schoolyard
The rejuvenated space encompasses a wide array of features, carefully designed to cater to the needs of the students and the community at large:
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Outdoor Classroom: An innovative outdoor learning environment, fostering education beyond the classroom’s traditional walls.
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Basketball Courts: A place for sports enthusiasts to hone their skills and embrace the joys of competition, designed by the gifted New York-based artist Nina Chanel Abney.
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Turf Field: A spacious green turf field perfect for various recreational activities, promoting an active and healthy lifestyle.
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Running Track: A track for running and fitness, encouraging physical activity and exercise.
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Trees and Permeable Pavers: The inclusion of trees and permeable pavers underlines the commitment to sustainable design, enhancing the environment and creating a pleasant atmosphere.
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Play Equipment: Engaging play equipment that will bring laughter and delight to the children’s playtime.
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Fitness Equipment: Modern fitness equipment for students and the community to stay active and maintain physical well-being.
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Game Tables and Benches: Spaces for community members to relax and engage in friendly competitions and social interactions.
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Color Seal Art: Artistic expressions that add vibrancy and creativity to the schoolyard’s ambiance.
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Recycling Center and Drinking Fountain: A commitment to sustainability and accessibility, promoting environmentally responsible practices.
Community Engagement and Impact
The revitalized schoolyard at Juan Morel Campos Secondary School is more than just a recreational area; it’s a valuable asset to the community. During non-school hours, this space will be open to residents, benefitting over 17,000 individuals living within a 10-minute walking distance.
Carter Strickland, VP of the Mid-Atlantic and New York State Director for Trust for Public Land, emphasized the importance of community parks and playgrounds. These spaces are instrumental in improving mental and physical well-being while contributing to environmental health. The opening of this schoolyard marks a significant milestone in making open spaces accessible and valuable for the local community.
Sustainability and Environmental Impact
The renovation of the schoolyard incorporates sustainable elements, including permeable pavers and a turf field that will capture approximately 840,000 gallons of stormwater annually. This design not only prevents neighborhood flooding but also protects New York City’s waterways from pollution. It is a testament to the commitment to creating a greener and more sustainable environment.
Empowering Future Generations
The Brooklyn Nets & New York Liberty Foundation aims to provide equitable access to education and sports. These newly designed courts are not just for basketball but are intended to inspire students to excel academically and athletically, fostering holistic development.
Kevin Durant’s contribution to the project reflects his commitment to positively impact communities. His foundation, the Kevin Durant Charity Foundation (KDCF), shares the goal of inspiring greatness in children and families through projects like these.
Conclusion
The collaborative effort to renovate the schoolyard at Juan Morel Campos Secondary School embodies the spirit of community empowerment, sustainability, and social responsibility. This project is a testament to the transformative power of teamwork and highlights the positive change that can be brought to local neighborhoods when visionary organizations and individuals come together.
Through this initiative, these partners have not only provided a beautiful play space but have also contributed to neighborhood flood prevention, environmental health, and the overall well-being of the community. The schoolyard serves as a model for creating inclusive and thriving spaces that have a lasting impact on the lives of those they touch.
