October 1, 2015
Ribbon Cutting

Brand New Pathways for Queens Botanical Garden

Mayor De Blasio has made a healthy and sustainable city his priority, and the Department of Design and Construction is committed to making this vision a reality by overseeing the creation and upgrade of facilities that provide this experience to every community across the five boroughs. The Queens Botanical Garden has been an essential community resource over the last 50 years—providing an urban oasis where culture, health, and nature intersect for celebration. On Thursday, Commissioner Peña-Mora, along with QBG Executive Director Susan Lacerte and several other civic and community leaders, celebrated the completion of the Pathways Repaving Project that will enhance the experience and health of visitors and the gardens alike.

The original pathways were installed in preparation for the 1964 New York World’s Fair and have since seen 10,000,000 pairs of feet exploring the grounds. DDC has focused on the reconstruction of principal areas connecting the “Gardens on Parade” section—making all major walkways both ADA-compliant and friendly to all visitors. To ensure the health of the gardens, upgrades include a new automated irrigation system, providing a reliable water supply to the entirety of the gardens. Keeping with the sustainable mission of QBG, DDC built a sustainable shed made of recycled materials to house the upgraded wells and pumps, as well as a concrete stepped ramp that will provide easy access from College Point Boulevard to Flushing Meadow Park while housing a dry well that keeps all stormwater on site. Lastly, all existing trees and landscaping adjacent to the construction zones were pruned and fertilized.

QBG is a testament to the importance of sustainable practices, not only for the environment but also for the creation of beautiful community spaces that invite people across all cultures to explore, learn and experience healthy living.