Discover Ma Riis Park: A Beloved Community Hub in Harrison, NY

Riis Park Introduce

Nestled conveniently between Harrison Town Hall and the Harrison Public Library at 2 Heineman Pl, Harrison, NY 10528, USA, lies a true gem for locals in Westchester County: Ma Riis Park. Originally known as Station Park, this cherished green space was officially dedicated in 1988 to honor Genevieve "Ma" Riis, a remarkable woman celebrated for her "Extraordinary and Devoted Service to Members of the Armed Forces During and After World War II." Ma Riis, affectionately known throughout the community, volunteered over 10,000 hours of her time at the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial Veterans Hospital, exemplifying a spirit of selfless dedication that continues to inspire.

Ma Riis Park is far more than just a patch of grass; it’s a vibrant community hub and a living testament to Harrison's rich history and unwavering respect for its service members. Despite its modest size, the park is incredibly well-utilized, offering a versatile space for relaxation, recreation, and remembrance. For locals in the New York region, particularly those in Harrison, this park serves as a central gathering point, a place where children can play, adults can relax, and the community can come together for various events. Its thoughtful design maximizes every square foot, blending recreational features with poignant historical monuments, making it a unique and meaningful destination for residents of all ages.

The park's significance lies not only in its namesake but also in its role as a repository of local history and a site for honoring heroes. It's a place where the community's past is preserved and celebrated, offering a serene yet engaging environment that caters to multiple purposes. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful stroll, a place for your children to expend some energy, or an opportunity to connect with local heritage, Ma Riis Park provides a welcoming and enriching experience right in the heart of Harrison. Its blend of recreational amenities and historical tributes makes it an invaluable asset to the community and a must-visit for anyone wishing to understand the spirit of Harrison, NY.

Ma Riis Park's location at 2 Heineman Pl, Harrison, NY 10528, USA, offers unparalleled accessibility for residents and visitors alike. Its strategic position directly between the Town Hall and the Public Library makes it a central and easily identifiable landmark within Harrison's civic core. This central placement means it's often a focal point for community activities and civic events, making it convenient for locals to visit.

For those traveling by car, the park is readily accessible from major roadways in Westchester County. Harrison is well-connected by highways such as I-287 (Cross Westchester Expressway) and I-684, making it simple to reach from various parts of the New York metropolitan area. While specific parking details for the park itself might vary, being adjacent to municipal buildings often implies the availability of nearby street parking or public parking lots, though visitors should always observe local parking regulations.

Public transportation also provides excellent access to Ma Riis Park. The Harrison Metro-North Railroad station, which offers direct service to Grand Central Terminal in Manhattan, is typically within walking distance or a very short bus ride from the park. This makes it convenient for New York City residents looking for a day trip to Harrison, or for local commuters. Additionally, the Westchester County Bee-Line Bus System operates routes throughout Harrison, providing easy access to the park for those relying on local transit. The park’s central location ensures that it is well-integrated into Harrison’s public transport network, promoting ease of access for the entire community. Its visibility and proximity to key municipal buildings further enhance its accessibility, ensuring it remains a frequently visited and cherished public space.

Services Offered:

Public Green Space: Offers open lawn areas for relaxation, picnics, and informal gatherings.
Playground Facilities: Includes a dedicated playground area for children, providing a safe and engaging space for play.
Walking Paths: Features a perimeter path for leisurely strolls and light exercise.
Commemorative Space: Serves as a site for public ceremonies and remembrances, particularly for veterans and first responders.
Access to Town Amenities: Its location provides direct access to the Harrison Public Library and Town Hall facilities.

Features / Highlights:

Genevieve "Ma" Riis Monument: A monument dedicated to "Ma" Riis herself, honoring her extraordinary service to veterans during and after World War II.
Veterans' Honor Roll Monument: Lists the names of over 300 men and women from Harrison who served in various conflicts, including World War I, World War II, the Korean War, Vietnam War, Desert Storm, and the Afghan War.
World War I Doughboy Monument: An original monument erected in 1939, further commemorating Harrison's service members from WWI.
9/11 First Responders Memorial: A special memorial dedicated to all Harrison first responders who bravely responded to Ground Zero during the tragic events of September 11th.
Joseph Acocella, Jr. Gazebo: A gazebo erected in 2019 in honor of past Town Clerk, Joseph Acocella, Jr., providing a shaded gathering spot.
Memorial Trees for Municipal Employees: The perimeter path is lined with trees planted in memory of individual past municipal employees, each with a plaque.
Adequate Green Space: Despite its compact size, the park utilizes its space effectively to provide sufficient green areas for public enjoyment.
Central Location: Its position between the Town Hall and Library makes it a visible and accessible focal point for the community.

As a public park and memorial, Ma Riis Park does not typically offer commercial promotions or special offers in the traditional retail sense. Its primary "offer" to the community is its continuous availability as a free, accessible, and historically significant green space.

However, the value and "promotions" for locals come in the form of:

Free Community Events: The park frequently serves as a venue for free public events organized by the Town/Village of Harrison or local community groups. These often include patriotic ceremonies on Memorial Day and Veterans Day, holiday gatherings, or children's programs (such as "Rock with Spencer in Riis Park" hosted by the Harrison Public Library, occurring on Tuesdays, June 3rd, 2025). These events provide valuable community engagement and entertainment at no cost.
Educational Value: The numerous monuments and plaques within the park offer a continuous, free educational experience for all ages, promoting local history and civic pride.
Recreational Access: The playground and green space are always available for free recreational use, offering a valuable amenity for families with children.

To stay informed about specific events and activities taking place at Ma Riis Park, it is highly recommended that locals check the official website of the Town/Village of Harrison (harrison-ny.gov) and the Harrison Public Library's event calendar (harrisonpl.org). These resources will provide the most up-to-date information on any scheduled programs or observances held at the park.

For general inquiries about Ma Riis Park or other parks and recreation facilities in Harrison, the best point of contact is the Town/Village of Harrison's Department of Public Works (DPW) or the Town Clerk's Office.

Address: 2 Heineman Pl, Harrison, NY 10528, USA

Contact for Town/Village of Harrison Departments:

Town/Village of Harrison main number: +1 914-670-3120
DPW Office (Parks Department): +1 914-670-3100

For more specific information regarding the historical aspects of the park or the memorials, you might also consult the Harrison Public Library or the Charles Dawson History Center, as they often hold records and information about local historical sites. The Harrison Public Library's website, in particular, frequently features information on events and historical tours related to the park.

In conclusion, Ma Riis Park is an exceptionally suitable and enriching destination for locals throughout the New York region, particularly those residing in Harrison, NY. Its unique blend of recreational amenities and profound historical significance makes it stand out among local green spaces. Far from being just a simple park, it serves as a central point for community gathering, a safe and engaging playground for children, and a deeply moving memorial site.

For families, the playground provides an excellent outlet for children's energy, while the overall green space offers a pleasant environment for relaxation and informal outdoor activities. For individuals interested in local history and patriotism, the numerous monuments and plaques dedicated to "Ma" Riis, veterans of various wars, and 9/11 first responders offer a powerful and accessible educational experience. The presence of the Joseph Acocella, Jr. Gazebo and the memorial trees further underscore the park's role as a cherished community landmark.

Its central location between the Town Hall and Public Library, coupled with excellent accessibility via Metro-North and local bus services, ensures that Ma Riis Park is truly a public amenity for all. It embodies the spirit of Harrison – a community that values its history, honors its heroes, and provides welcoming spaces for its residents to connect and thrive. A visit to Ma Riis Park is not merely an outing; it's an opportunity to engage with the heart and history of Harrison, making it an indispensable part of local life in Westchester County.