Van Dyke Houses Holds Groundbreaking for New Playground 

On September 20, the Van Dyke I Houses community celebrated a milestone moment in the establishment of a new playground and recreation area.  

Community members, led by Resident Association President Lisa Kenner, and local youth were joined by City Councilmember Darlene Mealy and NYCHA representatives to ceremoniously break ground for the new construction project at the Brooklyn development that is home to nearly 3,400 residents. 

Once completed, the communal space will be dedicated as “Sapphire’s Corner,” which resident leaders say will bring inner peace and hope for children and families across the community. 

The future play area, which will be surrounded by an exercise track, will feature colorful play structures and a flower-shaped spray shower, along with safety surfacing. The exercise track, designed with input from residents, aims to encourage caregiver walking, running, and open-ended play.  

The Sapphire’s Corner playground is part of a series of grounds improvement projects planned throughout the Van Dyke Houses campus, which includes renovations to two seating areas as well as a picnic area.