Last week, we toured Abolitionist Place, the 1.15 acre of public open space currently under construction that will bring much-needed open space to the heart of bustling Downtown Brooklyn. In 2021, New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) announced that the City would allocate $15 million to construction of the park, and since ground broke on the project in 2022, progress has proceeded swiftly, with the park slated for opening in early 2024.
Designed by renowned landscape architecture firm Hargreaves Jones, plans include a new play area, lawn space, dog run, lush ornamental plantings, and multiple seating areas. The project is part of the Downtown Brooklyn Redevelopment Plan, a set of space and infrastructure commitments made in 2004 to reinvigorate the neighborhood and celebrate the area’s unique heritage.
Abolitionist Place is half a block from famous Fulton Mall, and framed by some of the neighborhoods most notable recent developments, including One Willoughby Square, Brooklyn Point, City Point, and The Brooklyn Tower.
Designer Misty March walks attendees through the design of Abolitionist Place.
View of playground construction in process, looking towards Duffield Street.
Infrastructure for the future waterplay area is in place!
Future plantings bed, looking towards City Point bklyn.
In 2021, Willoughby Square was renamed Abolitionist Place, commemorating the 19th century abolitionist movement.
DBP is proud of its role in creating this long-awaited public square in the heart of Downtown Brooklyn that will provide green space and community amenities to Downtown Brooklyn, further enhancing the growing commercial, residential, and cultural hub. Upon completion, DBP will assume responsibility for maintenance and programming of the space. We cannot wait to welcome you to this wonderful new park!
