Since 2005, Greenpoint and Williamsburg residents have asked this question: “Where is our park?”
More than a decade later, they finally have their answer.
Mayor Bill de Blasio announced today that the city has acquired the last parcel needed to complete Bushwick Inlet Park. The 11-acre property on the former CitiStorage site was purchased from owner Norman Brodsky for $160 million.
“Today is the day we begin turning the full vision of Bushwick Inlet Park into a reality,” de Blasio said in a statement. “This is an investment in the future of Brooklyn, and in the children, longtime residents and newcomers in this community.”
The deal comes after a long negotiation with Brodsky, who rejected the city’s initial offer of $100 million. The CitiStorage owner wanted more, and even put the property up in a private auction.
Advocates tried to dissuade potential investors by pointing out the legacy of environmental legacy associated with the land, and the likely expensive remediation process.
Elected officials from the local, state and federal level also tried to intervene. They camped out in the rain and started a countdown clock to try to convince Brodsky to agree.
But in the end, the city’s $160 million offer was enough. After former Mayor Michael Bloomberg first promised the park in 2005 in exchange for a massive residential rezoning, the city finally kept its promise to north Brooklyn residents.
“When we commit to build a new park or a new school in a growing community, we deliver,” de Blasio said. “We look forward to working with local elected officials, activists and residents as we design and build a Bushwick Inlet Park we can all be proud of.
On Twitter, elected officials and even Mr. Brodsky announced the deal.
It's done Williamsburg has its park
— Norm Brodsky (@NormBrodsky) November 22, 2016
It happened!!! Full Bushwick Park!! https://t.co/VQ9DMiD6o4
— Bushwick Inlet Park (@bushwickinlet) November 22, 2016
Elected officials celebrated the win for the community.
We’ve rallied, we’ve written, we’ve legislated — and today, we celebrate together w/ @StephenLevin33, @bushwickinlet & North BK community pic.twitter.com/tmT7ETd693
— Daniel Squadron (@DanielSquadron) November 22, 2016
I am beyond overjoyed.This #BushwickInletPark deal is a victory for all of Brooklyn and beyond. Read my statement: https://t.co/nK9KPJzjqG
— (((Stephen Levin))) 🟣 (@StephenLevin33) November 22, 2016
Today is a truly momentous day for #Greenpoint and #Williamsburg, who've been fighting for decades to make @BushwickInlet Park a reality.
— Eric Adams (@BKBoroHall) November 22, 2016