The renovated park and playground at the Heritage Homes on Brook Street in New Rochelle have been renamed for Ryan August Sinkfield.

Ryan died unexpectedly on May 22, 2020 after suffering complications from a medical procedure for his sickle cell disease.

Sheniqua Smith, Ryan's mother says, "A curious and intelligent young man, Ryan was a joy to be around. He would always joke and make us laugh."

"That was the kind of kid Ryan was, he was energetic, spontaneous," says Kwamaine Dixon, of New Rochelle.

The city initially planned on naming the park Heritage Park, but Dixon feels this new name is much more fitting.

"Now with the name of Ryan Sinkfield Park & Playground, now it's a name we can relate to."