A new and improved playground opened on Tuesday in Parkchester thanks to a $2.5 million investment from the City Council.

 

Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony where kids could already be seen breaking in the new digs. She said Noble Playground hasn't received a makeover since 1954. The latest upgrades include new playground equipment, exercise gear for adults, and even a sprinkler for those hot summer days.

 

Trees were also planted, which City Parks Commissioner Sue Donoghue said will provide relief from the heat and tackle air quality issues that have longed plagued the neighborhood. Residents told News 12 these health challenges are due in part to the construction of the Cross Bronx Expressway.

 

“It is good for bringing communities together, bringing families together, but it's also really good for people's health and wellbeing, especially children." Donoghue said. "We've got all these beautiful, both mature trees and newly planted trees, [to] help clean the air."

 

Kids playing at the park were all smiles. Julius, 8, was the first to try out the new spot and said that a new playground was much better than playing his video games inside.

 

The playground will be open every day from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.