
MANHATTAN — The Brooklyn Banks, a legendary skate park under the Brooklyn Bridge, reopened Thursday after a 15-year closure due to bridge rehabilitation, reports NY1.
Revitalized with Gotham Park and pro skateboarder Tony Hawk’s Skatepark Project, the two-acre plaza in “The Arches” features new seating, greenery and a revamped, safer design. The Arches were previously a public open space but have been used for construction staging since 2010; the city has been steadily reopening portions of the area over the last two years.
Mayor Eric Adams at the ceremony also announced a $50 million investment for further enhancements, including sports facilities and public amenities.
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SUNSET PARK — “As a resident of Marine Park, one of the great surprises I found biking around Industry City and visiting Japan Village was to discover Bush Terminal Park. I continue to be amazed at the serene hideaways that the city offers in some of the busiest places — and, still, with an iconic view.”

BROOKLYN HEIGHTS — ‘A miracle that no one was killed …’ That’s what neighbors are saying about the collapse of the Hotel St. George marquee. Shown in this photograph are workmen beginning the removal and repair of the historic, old neon sign at the corner, referencing a relic of Brooklyn Heights’ past: the St. George Hotel.

ATLANTIC AVENUE — Exhausted shopper with cluster of bags and goods from mall at Boerum Place stops to look at huge construction site across the street. “Is that REALLY going to be a jail??” Her male companion is reassuring, “Nothing like Rikers … this is 21st Century.”
BROOKLYN HEIGHTS — Overheard in line at one of most popular pastry outlets on Montague Street: “Hope I can get them into a camp …” A mother with two pre-schoolers in tow was showing a friend the Dodge Y flyer for Healthy Kids Day on Saturday, April 18.