Photo Flash: Work Begins on $1.6 Million Renovation of Little Bay Park Soccer Fields

Queens Parks Commissioner Dorothy Lewandowski today joined Council Member Paul Vallone and representatives from local soccer teams to break ground on the $1.6 million reconstruction of the soccer fields in Bayside's Little Bay Park.

"We are excited to begin work on the next round of improvements to Little Bay Park. Upgrades to the soccer field will allow players to get back in the game sooner after a rainfall, and additional site improvements will ensure a more enjoyable experience for athletes and spectators alike," said Queens Parks Commissioner Dorothy Lewandowski. "I would like to thank Council Member Vallone, who has been an ardent supporter of this important green space along Queens' waterfront."

"The kids in Northeast Queens have some beautiful brand new soccer fields to look forward to," said Council Member Paul Vallone. "The upgrades coming to the fields at Little Bay Park will be a welcome addition to the community and will provide a great playing experience for everyone for years to come."

The project will rehabilitate the park's compacted playing fields and alleviate drainage issues. Additionally, an accessible walking path is being created around the perimeter of the playing fields, and a new accessible drinking fountain will be installed, allowing users of all abilities to enjoy this waterfront park. Also, trees will be planted to absorb storm water directed off the fields into a bioswale.

Construction began this month, and is scheduled to be complete in April 2017.

This is the latest in many recent improvements to Little Bay Park. In May 2015, NYC Parks opened an expanded parking lot with green infrastructure elements to aid in storm water management, and in February 2016 a brand new heated comfort station opened for public use.

Little Bay Park offers splendid views of Throgs Neck Bridge, the East River, and Little Bay itself. The park boasts two multipurpose fields, a baseball field, roller hockey rink, and sitting areas along the shore.