During Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano’s tenure, his administration has been involved in a significant number of park renovations and some new park creations. Nearly 30 parks have already been renovated, with over a dozen more underway this year.
Examples of recently renovated parks include Welty Park and Conor Park, which were recently reopened with new playgrounds, landscaping, and upgrades for accessibility, including the city’s first dog run at Conor Park. In 2024 alone, more than a dozen parks were renovated.
.Andrus Park also recently underwent major renovations after nearly 30 years, including new basketball courts, tennis/pickleball courts, and a new play area. Other renovations have included upgrades like new fitness centers at Dunn and Columbus parks and a sensory garden at Grant Park.
New parks have been created as well. One notable new park initiative is the creation of a new 3.8-acre waterfront park in Ludlow which will provide direct access to the Hudson River and include a playground, open space, and a boat launch. Construction for this project is expected to begin soon and it is projected to open in 2027.
Other examples include The “Daylighting” of the Saw Mill River project which has created new green spaces in downtown Yonkers, including three parks designed to open up green space and protect the river’s ecology. In a recent agreement, a land swap with St. John’s Riverside Hospital will allow for the restoration of the historic Color Gardens at Untermyer Gardens, enhancing its beauty and accessibility.
In summary, Mayor Spano’s administration has focused heavily on renovating existing parks, transforming “dozens” of parks each year and making them more accessible and suited for diverse activities, such as adding pickleball courts.