Design approved for controversial skate park at Mount Prospect Park
Opponents argue the project would replace a heavily used natural space with hardscape, pointing to the trees, dog‑walking paths and picnic areas that draw families daily.
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Plans to build a skate park in the center of Mount Prospect Park are moving ahead after New York City’s Public Design Commission voted to approve the project. But many parkgoers say the redesign threatens one of the neighborhood’s most valued green spaces.
The proposal would transform the open field at the heart of the Flatbush park into a concrete skate area that city planners describe as a major upgrade. Representatives from NYC Design Commission called it a “world‑class design, where people can learn,” during the commission’s presentation, describing the park’s two skating areas - including a skate bowl at the center.
Opponents argue the project would replace a heavily used natural space with hardscape, pointing to the trees, dog‑walking paths and picnic areas that draw families daily.
“This is used by the community a lot — not just dog owners,” said parkgoer Joseph, who spoke with News 12. “There are BBQs, picnics, and people play soccer. Why not other places that are concrete already to turn into a skate park? I'm not against skaters but why take away green?”
City officials said during the Monday hearing that the new design includes drainage improvements and would preserve portions of the existing green space. They argue the new surface would drain water more effectively than the aging concrete already in parts of the park.
Still, some residents remain unconvinced.
“People love the grounds here, so it’s worn out. That means it needs maintenance, not paving,” said Haley Gorenberg, a member of Friends of Mount Prospect Park.
One feature that survived the final design of revisions is a large ramp that leads directly toward Eastern Parkway. Some residents warn it could encourage skaters to ride straight into traffic.
“It’s dangerous to have people bombing out of here on the skateboard,” one parkgoer told News 12.
The design approval now sends the project to a final vote scheduled for April 9.
