Metcalf Park

Metcalf Park, officially recognized as Metcalf Playground, is a cherished "Scenic Spot" and a vital neighborhood amenity located at 1670 E 174th St, Bronx, NY 10472, USA. This 0.19-acre park, managed by NYC Parks, provides a dedicated recreational space for the local community, particularly focusing on children's play and fostering a sense of neighborhood gathering.

Metcalf Park's environment is characterized by its intentional design as a playground, prioritizing safety and engagement for young children. As a "secluded recreational space for the young children of the neighborhood," it offers a safe and enclosed area where families can feel comfortable. The park features essential playground equipment and safety surfacing, which are critical for preventing injuries and ensuring a fun play experience. Scattered red benches are also provided, offering seating for parents and guardians to supervise their children or simply to rest and enjoy the park's atmosphere.

The park is situated at the intersection of East 172nd Street and Metcalf Avenue, and is bounded by the Bronx River Parkway. The presence of vegetation on three sides helps to create a secluded feel, offering a degree of separation from the surrounding urban bustle and the nearby parkway. This natural screening contributes to a more pleasant and tranquil environment within the playground. The park's proximity to the Bronx River Parkway also means it's part of a larger green corridor, albeit a dedicated space for play rather than expansive natural landscapes.

A notable aspect of Metcalf Park, as highlighted by a customer review, is its primary entrance. While geographically it might appear near Fetely, the practical and accessible entry point is firmly on East 174th Street. This clarification is important for local users navigating to the park. The park's current address, 1670 E 174th St, clearly indicates this main point of access, which has been corrected on digital mapping platforms, ensuring easier visits for the community.

The park is named for Charles and Hester Metcalf, landowners from the 1840s in the area surrounding what is now the Bronx River Parkway. This historical connection subtly enriches the park's identity, grounding it in the local heritage of the Bronx.

As a public park managed by NYC Parks, Metcalf Park provides free and open access to the community during its operational hours. The primary service offered is the provision of a safe, maintained public space for children's play and neighborhood interaction. NYC Parks is responsible for the upkeep of the playground equipment, safety surfacing, and general cleanliness of the park. Official inspections by NYC Parks have rated Metcalf Playground as "Acceptable" in terms of overall condition and cleanliness in recent assessments, indicating a consistent standard of maintenance.

Metcalf Park also offers accessibility features, although specific details may vary. NYC Parks aims to ensure its playgrounds are accessible, with some offering ramps, transfer stations, or accessible play elements. For Metcalf Playground, it is noted to have accessible play elements and companion seating (space in between benches for wheelchair users), indicating an effort towards inclusivity. However, it does not have public restrooms or accessible drinking fountains on site.

The park's hours of operation are generally consistent with NYC Parks' playground schedules: 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. from November 1 to March 1, and 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. from March 2 to October 31. These extended summer hours allow for more evening play and community use. The park's location in a residential area makes it easily accessible to local residents, often within walking distance for families in the immediate vicinity.

While no explicit "goods for sale" are available within the park, the primary "service" provided is the invaluable opportunity for children to engage in physical activity, imaginative play, and social development in a safe outdoor environment. This free public amenity contributes significantly to the well-being and quality of life for families in the neighborhood.

The most effective promotional information for Metcalf Park comes from the simple, positive reviews of local users. Phrases like "Nice little park was passing by" convey its pleasant atmosphere, while the detailed feedback about the entrance highlights the community's engagement and desire for accurate information, indicating how valued the park is to its frequent visitors. The commitment of local residents to ensure accurate mapping for the park's entrance underscores its importance as a daily destination for families.

Metcalf Park plays a crucial role in the local community by offering a designated space for children to play, which is particularly valuable in urban environments. It contributes to neighborhood cohesion by providing a common ground where parents and children can meet and interact. The park's historical naming adds a subtle layer of local identity and pride.

Furthermore, Metcalf Park is part of a network of recreational facilities in the Bronx, including other nearby playgrounds such as Magenta Playground (0.23 miles away), Watson Gleason Playground (0.25 miles away), and Bronx Park (0.59 miles away). This network ensures that residents have access to various outdoor amenities, with Metcalf Park specifically serving the needs for dedicated children's play in its immediate vicinity.

In conclusion, Metcalf Park, or Metcalf Playground, is a well-maintained and important "Scenic Spot" in the Bronx. It is a testament to NYC Parks' dedication to providing accessible and safe recreational spaces for urban communities. Its focus on children's play, combined with its secluded environment and historical ties, makes it a cherished and essential resource for families in the neighborhood.

Metcalf Park

1670 E 174th St, Bronx, NY 10472, USA