Phyllis Post Goodman Park

Phyllis Post Goodman Park, situated at 2600 Henry Hudson Parkway East, Bronx, NY 10463, USA, is a small yet significant "Scenic Spot" nestled within the Riverdale neighborhood of the Bronx. This half-acre triangle/plaza park offers a welcome respite from the urban environment, providing a tranquil green space for local residents and those working nearby. It serves as a testament to civic engagement, honoring Phyllis Post Goodman, who was known for her commitment to preserving green spaces in the area. You can contact the NYC Parks Department for information regarding this park at (212) 639-9675 or +1 212-639-9675.

The environment of Phyllis Post Goodman Park is characterized by its lush vegetation and shaded atmosphere. Despite its relatively small size (0.50 acres), the park is thoughtfully designed to maximize its natural appeal. Dominant tree species such as black locusts, Norway maples, and Northern Red Oaks provide ample shade, creating a cool and inviting ambiance, particularly on sunny days. This natural canopy makes it an ideal spot for a lunch break or a quiet moment of relaxation, as attested by a delighted visitor who called it a "lovely park to enjoy on a sunny day!!!"

A key feature of the park's environment is its wildflower garden, located in the center. This garden boasts a variety of flora, including day and asiatic lilies, winged euonymous, houttuynia, hostas, roses, azaleas, and balloon flowers. The diverse plantings add vibrant colors and textures, enhancing the park's aesthetic beauty and contributing to a "bucolic atmosphere." A small stone birdbath further enriches the natural environment by attracting local avian life, such as bluejays, robins, and even occasional mockingbirds, allowing visitors to observe urban wildlife.

The park is bounded by the Henry Hudson Parkway and Kappock Street, a strategic location that places it within reach for many, while still offering a sense of seclusion. It is part of the larger network of NYC Parks, ensuring a certain standard of maintenance and care. The overall feeling is one of peace and calm, providing a natural escape within a busy borough.

As a public park under the purview of the New York City Department of Parks & Recreation, Phyllis Post Goodman Park primarily offers services related to passive recreation and public access to green space. Its main service is providing a free, open-air environment for relaxation and enjoyment.

• Accessible Green Space: The park serves as a vital green lung in its immediate vicinity, offering residents and workers a place to connect with nature without needing to travel far.
• Sitting Area: The presence of a "small sitting area" caters to those looking to sit, read, or simply enjoy the outdoors. This makes it particularly suitable for short breaks, as highlighted by a reviewer who visited during their lunch break.
• Nature Observation: The wildflower garden and birdbath actively support local wildlife, providing an opportunity for visitors to engage in birdwatching or simply appreciate the flora and fauna.
• Aesthetic Enjoyment: The park's well-maintained vegetation and blooming flowers contribute to its visual appeal, offering a pleasant backdrop for a stroll or quiet contemplation.

While the park does not feature active recreational facilities like playgrounds or sports courts, its service is focused on providing a serene atmosphere. Maintenance services, such as landscaping, waste removal, and general upkeep, are implicitly provided by the NYC Parks Department to ensure the park remains clean and safe for public use. The presence of a phone number associated with NYC Parks (212) 639-9675 indicates a point of contact for inquiries or reporting issues, ensuring the park is adequately managed.

Phyllis Post Goodman Park, though modest in size, possesses distinct features that enhance its character and utility:

• Lush Vegetation and Shade Trees: The park is notable for its mature trees, including black locusts, Norway maples, and Northern Red Oaks, which create a significant canopy for shade, a valuable asset in an urban park.
• Central Wildflower Garden: This is a defining feature, showcasing a variety of flowering plants like day and asiatic lilies, roses, azaleas, and balloonflowers, providing continuous seasonal interest and contributing to the park's vibrant appearance.
• Stone Birdbath: This small, naturalistic element not only adds to the park's charm but also serves an ecological function by attracting various bird species, enhancing the park's biodiversity and offering wildlife viewing opportunities.
• Dedicated Sitting Area: The provision of a specific sitting area indicates that the park is designed for quiet contemplation and relaxation, catering to those seeking a calm environment.
• Historical Significance: The park is named in honor of Phyllis Post Goodman (1932–1995), a local civic leader. Her legacy includes successful efforts in the early 1970s to preserve land in the area for public use, which later became the site of John F. Kennedy High School and P.S. 37. This naming feature serves as a tribute to her community contributions, connecting the park to the broader civic history of the Bronx.
• Property Type: Triangle/Plaza: This description indicates its urban design, often implying a space that efficiently utilizes a particular plot of land, typically at an intersection or along a thoroughfare.

As a public park, Phyllis Post Goodman Park is not actively "promoted" through commercial advertising. Its visibility relies on its designation as a "Scenic Spot" within the NYC Parks system and local community awareness. Information about the park is primarily available through the official NYC Parks website and local community resources.

Visitors can expect a serene and well-maintained urban green space. It is a place for quiet enjoyment, suitable for a leisurely walk, a moment of repose, or simply appreciating nature. It is not designed for active sports or large gatherings but rather for a more intimate connection with the outdoors. The positive review highlights its appeal as a "lovely park" for a "sunny day," emphasizing its peaceful atmosphere. While specific operating hours are not listed, public parks in NYC are generally open from dawn to dusk. It is always advisable to check the NYC Parks website for any specific regulations or temporary closures.

For local residents of the Bronx, especially those in the Riverdale area, Phyllis Post Goodman Park serves as a convenient and valuable amenity, offering a touch of natural beauty and a peaceful escape within their daily routines. Its understated charm and commitment to green space preservation make it a cherished community asset.

Phyllis Post Goodman Park

2600 Henry Hudson Parkway East, Bronx, NY 10463, USA