The design proposal to build a playground at Burling Slip is a joint effort between the Department of Parks and Recreation and the Rockwell Group. The Lower Manhattan Development Corporation is also funding the playground, along with an endowment from The Rockwell Group. Burling Slip is a wide area at John St. between Front and South Sts. The area, which was at one point an actual boat slip, currently serves as a parking lot.
All of the posted information, including schedules and completion dates are based on the information provided by the project managers.
Summary
The new $4 million playground is a figure eight, ship-like shape on a raised hard surface with limited groupings of trees, shrubs and other greenery. The object is to keep the area’s overall feel of a working slip.
The current angled parking will be replaced with parallel parking. The Seaport’s cobblestone walkways will extend south to incorporate the playground. Visually, the idea is to maintain the area’s flat plane appearance. To pedestrians the playground will look as if it is floating in a field of granite paving stones.
Built-in seating rings part of the play area. Other seating includes scattered benches and tables with chairs, many facing the water. Children’s play areas include sand and water features to give the space a connection to its waterfront home.
Included in the proposal is the unusual concept of play-workers or playground staffers, on hand for training and educational purposes. Workers will be hired and trained by the Dept. of Parks and Recreation and salaries covered by a $2 million grant from the Rockwell Group. Two to four staffers will be on hand during peak spring and summer months while one permanent worker will remain in the park through the colder, winter months.
