Colgate Close Park

For residents of the Bronx, finding a local park that offers both activity and a sense of calm can be a true urban blessing. Tucked away in the vibrant Soundview neighborhood, Colgate Close Park stands as one such local treasure. This neighborhood park, named in part for the notable financier and philanthropist James Colgate, and early pioneer John Cloes, provides a versatile green space where New Yorkers can unwind, play, and connect with their community. It's a testament to the ongoing dedication to providing accessible green infrastructure within the borough.

Colgate Close Park is a valuable asset to the Bronx, offering a much-needed respite from the fast pace of city life. While some parks are bustling hubs of activity, Colgate Close Park has garnered a reputation for being a "Very Nice And Quiet Park," making it an ideal spot for those seeking a more tranquil outdoor experience. This doesn't mean it lacks amenities; rather, it strikes a balance, providing recreational opportunities while maintaining a serene atmosphere. Such spaces are crucial for urban dwellers, offering opportunities for relaxation, informal gatherings, and a chance to simply breathe fresh air. The historical roots of the park, established in 1958 and undergoing significant restoration in 1985 and further improvements in 1995, underscore its long-standing commitment to serving the local community. For New Yorkers looking for a peaceful escape without venturing far from home, Colgate Close Park proves to be a compelling choice, reflecting the diverse range of green spaces available across the city.

Colgate Close Park is conveniently located at 1013 Close Ave #5503, Bronx, NY 10472, USA. This address places it within the Soundview section of the Bronx, a dynamic residential neighborhood. The park is situated off the Bruckner Expressway, nestled between Colgate Avenue and Close Avenue, making it a highly accessible spot for local residents. Its position within a residential area means that for many New Yorkers living nearby, it’s a short walk or a quick ride away, seamlessly integrating into their daily routines.

For those relying on New York City's extensive public transportation system, Colgate Close Park is well-served by various MTA bus routes that operate within the Soundview neighborhood. While specific bus lines may vary, routes along Bruckner Boulevard or major cross streets in the vicinity would typically provide convenient access. Additionally, subway stations serving the area, though perhaps not directly adjacent, could offer a connection via a short bus ride or walk. The park's placement within the 10472 ZIP code and its affiliation with Community Board 9 further emphasize its role as a key local resource. Its accessibility, whether by foot, bike, or public transit, makes Colgate Close Park a true neighborhood amenity, allowing residents to easily enjoy its features and escape into a green space without the need for extensive travel.

As a New York City Parks property, Colgate Close Park offers a variety of services and amenities designed to cater to the recreational and leisure needs of the local community. While not all parks offer every service, based on general NYC Parks facilities and available information, the services typically found or implied at a neighborhood park like Colgate Close Park include:

• Recreational Facilities Maintenance: NYC Parks maintains the park's key recreational facilities, which include a well-maintained baseball field and a playground. This ensures that these areas are safe, clean, and ready for public use for sports and play.

• Green Space Management: The park features a "lush garden behind the baseball field, filled with a variety of plants and flowers." This suggests ongoing horticultural care, including planting, weeding, and general upkeep to provide an aesthetically pleasing and biodiverse environment.

• Public Seating Areas: The presence of "benches" indicates that the park provides designated areas for relaxation, reading, or simply enjoying the outdoors. These seating options are crucial for a "quiet park" experience.

• Playground Supervision and Safety: While not a direct service, NYC Parks regularly inspects playgrounds for safety and ensures they meet accessibility standards, providing a secure environment for children.

• Accessible Amenities: NYC Parks strives for accessibility. For its playground specifically, accessible play elements like "water-based play features" and "mobility transfer systems" are noted, alongside benches with backs and armrests, indicating a commitment to inclusive design. Accessible drinking fountains are also a feature.

• Waste Management: Public parks offer waste receptacles and regular trash collection to maintain cleanliness and hygiene within the park grounds.

• Community Engagement Support: While not directly providing services, NYC Parks supports community involvement in park maintenance and programming through initiatives like the GreenThumb program or local park stewardship groups, which can contribute to the garden areas.

Colgate Close Park offers several distinct features and highlights that make it a valuable resource for the Bronx community, appealing to a range of local users.

• Baseball Field: A prominent feature is its "well-maintained baseball field." This is a significant highlight for local sports enthusiasts, youth leagues, and casual players. The description even notes "artistic designs on its outfield fence and a picture of Cubby the Catcher adorning its backstop," indicating a unique and cared-for playing environment that adds to the park's character.

• Lush Garden and Greenery: Beyond the active sports area, the park boasts a "lush garden behind the baseball field, filled with a variety of plants and flowers." This provides a beautiful and serene natural space, offering visual appeal and a tranquil escape from urban surroundings. It's a highlight for those seeking quiet contemplation or simply enjoying floral beauty.

• Quiet and Relaxing Atmosphere: A key highlight, as noted in user reviews, is that it’s a "Very Nice And Quiet Park." This quality makes it particularly suitable for individuals and families seeking a peaceful environment for reading, casual strolls, or simply unwinding away from city noise. This tranquility contrasts with some of NYC's busier parks.

• Playground Facilities: The park includes a playground, which is a crucial feature for families with children. While one review mentioned it was "okay for the time being" for kids, the presence of a playground, potentially with features like spray showers (common in NYC parks), provides a dedicated space for younger visitors to play and exert energy. NYC Parks also notes the playground's accessibility features, such as "water-based play features" and "mobility transfer systems."

• Chess Tables and Benches: The garden area is equipped with "benches, and chess tables," encouraging leisurely activities and social interaction. These amenities are perfect for quiet recreation, mental engagement, and informal gatherings, appealing to a diverse age range.

• Historical Significance: The park itself has a rich history, named after John Cloes and James Colgate, a famous financier. This historical context, as detailed by NYC Parks, adds a layer of depth and interest for visitors curious about the area's past. The park land was acquired by NYC in 1958 and has undergone significant improvements over the decades.

As a public park operated by the New York City Department of Parks & Recreation, Colgate Close Park does not typically offer commercial "promotions" or "special offers" in the retail sense. Its primary function is to provide free and open public access to recreational facilities and green space for all New Yorkers. However, the "promotions" of Colgate Close Park can be understood in terms of the ongoing, inherent benefits and opportunities it provides to the local community without a monetary cost. These include:

• Free Access to Recreational Facilities: The most significant "promotion" is the free use of its well-maintained baseball field and playground. This allows local residents to engage in sports, exercise, and play without any admission fees, making healthy outdoor activities accessible to everyone.

• Complimentary Green Space for Relaxation: The park offers a serene environment with lush gardens, benches, and chess tables that can be enjoyed for free. This is a perpetual "special offer" of tranquility and a natural escape from the urban environment, crucial for mental well-being.

• Community Gathering Spot: The park serves as an informal meeting place where neighbors can connect, socialize, and foster a sense of community, all at no cost. It’s an open invitation for local interaction and camaraderie.

• Accessibility Features: The park's playground incorporates accessible play elements and amenities like accessible drinking fountains, promoting inclusivity for visitors of all abilities, which is an ongoing "promotion" of equity in public spaces.

• Seasonal Events (if applicable): While not guaranteed, some neighborhood parks may occasionally host free community events, such as seasonal festivals, outdoor performances, or clean-up drives, which would be promoted locally. These intermittent events add further value to the park experience. Information regarding such events would typically be found through local community boards or on the NYC Parks website.

• Health and Wellness Benefits: The park implicitly "promotes" physical activity and mental well-being. Engaging in outdoor play, walking, or simply sitting in nature contributes to overall health, serving as a continuous, non-monetary benefit.

These "promotions" highlight the park's value as a sustained public good, providing essential services and a higher quality of life for New Yorkers at no direct cost.

To get in touch regarding Colgate Close Park, whether for inquiries about park use, maintenance, or community initiatives, New Yorkers can utilize the following contact information:

Address: 1013 Close Ave #5503, Bronx, NY 10472, USA

Phone: (212) 639-9675

Mobile Phone: +1 212-639-9675 (This appears to be the same number, often listed as a primary contact for NYC Parks general inquiries, or a specific department related to park maintenance or community services.)

It is important to note that this phone number is likely a general contact for NYC Parks & Recreation services, which oversees thousands of parks across the city, including Colgate Close Park. For specific information about the park's operating hours (if any apply beyond general park hours), events, or to report maintenance issues, it's often best to call the general NYC Parks contact number or visit their official website (nycgovparks.org). The website provides extensive details about individual parks, amenities, and ways to get involved, such as volunteering or joining Friends of Parks groups. Additionally, reaching out to Bronx Community Board 9, which serves the area where Colgate Close Park is located, can also be a good avenue for local inquiries or concerns, as community boards are key liaisons between residents and city agencies regarding neighborhood services and quality of life issues.

Colgate Close Park is well-suited for locals in New York, especially those in the Bronx, for a variety of reasons that cater to diverse needs within an urban setting. Despite one review noting it was "okay" for a single visit with kids, the overall sentiment, including the observation of it being a "Very Nice And Quiet Park," points to its significant value as a neighborhood amenity.

Firstly, its quiet nature provides a crucial escape from the constant noise and activity of city life. For residents seeking a peaceful spot for relaxation, reading, or simply enjoying nature without the overwhelming crowds found in larger, more famous parks, Colgate Close Park delivers. This tranquility is a rare and valuable commodity in New York City, making it ideal for those who prioritize calm and serenity in their outdoor experiences.

Secondly, the park's facilities, including a well-maintained baseball field and a playground, ensure that it caters to both active and passive recreational needs. The baseball field offers a dedicated space for sports enthusiasts and local teams, while the playground provides an important outlet for children's play and development. Even if it's not every family's top choice for repeat visits, its presence still offers a convenient option for local parents and caregivers seeking nearby play areas. The inclusion of benches and chess tables further enhances its appeal for casual social interaction and leisurely pursuits.

Moreover, as an official NYC Parks property, Colgate Close Park benefits from city maintenance and accessibility initiatives. Its accessible playground features demonstrate a commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that more children, regardless of mobility, can enjoy the play area. This dedication to public service reinforces its suitability as a reliable and welcoming local resource.

Finally, the park's role as a neighborhood park inherently strengthens community ties. It's a place where neighbors can gather informally, fostering a sense of shared space and collective well-being. For New Yorkers looking for a local, accessible green space that balances recreational opportunities with a peaceful atmosphere, Colgate Close Park stands as a valuable and enduring asset in the Bronx.

Colgate Close Park

1013 Close Ave #5503, Bronx, NY 10472, USA