Woodside Memorial Plaza

Situated in the vibrant Queens neighborhood of Woodside, at the junction of Woodside Avenue and Roosevelt Avenue, the Woodside Memorial Plaza (also known as Woodside Memorial Park and Woodside Plaza) stands as a significant "Scenic Spot" and a place of quiet contemplation. This urban plaza is dedicated to the members of the Woodside community who made the ultimate sacrifice in World War I, World War II, Korea, and Vietnam. More than just a memorial, it offers a vital green space for local residents, providing an opportunity for relaxation and reflection amidst the urban dynamic.

The environment of Woodside Memorial Plaza is characterized by its blend of urban functionality and solemn remembrance. Originally known as Woodside Memorial Park when constructed in 1971, and later renamed Woodside Plaza in 1998, it is located at a busy intersection, yet manages to offer a degree of respite. The plaza features smooth gray marble paving, thoughtfully laid with square and hexagonal tiles, creating a structured yet inviting ground. It is adorned with several young trees and new plantings, including Willowleaf cotoneaster (Cotoneaster salicifolius), Siberian cypress (Microbiota decussata), lillyturf (Liriope muscari “Big Blue”), cranesbill (Geranium masculatum), and Bloody geranium (Geranium sanguineum), along with Evergreen barrenwort (Epimedium davidii). These plantings contribute to the plaza's aesthetic appeal and its role as a green space, bringing natural elements into an otherwise densely built environment.

Central to the plaza's environment is a large, imposing monument of smooth gray marble. This monument bears a gold-lettered inscription: "WOODSIDE MEMORIAL PARK: Dedicated to all members of the community who made the supreme sacrifice for the good and welfare of their country and for the peace and freedom of mankind. THE WORLD WARS, KOREA, AND VIETNAM." This prominent feature anchors the space, reminding visitors of its solemn purpose. The plaza also includes several sets of wooden benches, two lampposts, a flagpole with a yardarm, and a drinking fountain, all of which were added or reconstructed in 1999, enhancing its functionality and welcoming atmosphere for daily visitors.

As part of the NYC Parks Greenstreets program, a joint project of Parks and the Department of Transportation, Woodside Memorial Plaza actively contributes to converting paved street properties into green spaces. This initiative further enhances its environmental benefits, such as improving air quality and providing a pleasant microclimate in the urban setting.

As a designated "Scenic Spot," Woodside Memorial Plaza primarily offers services related to public access, historical commemoration, and passive recreation. It does not sell goods directly within the park, but its strategic location provides indirect access to surrounding commercial amenities. Its features are designed to facilitate quiet enjoyment and a connection to local history:

• Memorial and Commemoration: The plaza's core function is to serve as a memorial. It provides a dedicated space for the community to remember and honor local residents who died in various conflicts. This feature offers a significant civic and historical service, fostering a sense of collective memory and gratitude.
• Passive Recreation and Relaxation: As noted by user reviews, the plaza is a "great spot to sit in & relax during the daylight hours." It serves as a perfect place for individuals to pause, rest, and observe the surroundings. The presence of benches encourages people to linger, whether for a moment of quiet reflection, a casual conversation, or simply to take a break from their daily routines. It's suitable for various age groups, including young children, offering a safe and contained outdoor environment.
• Urban Green Space: In a dense urban neighborhood like Woodside, public green spaces are invaluable. The plaza provides a much-needed patch of greenery, contributing to the quality of life for residents. The trees and plantings offer visual appeal and environmental benefits, making the urban environment more pleasant and breathable.
• Accessibility: Located on Woodside Ave, the plaza is easily accessible to pedestrians and those using public transportation in the area. Its central location ensures that a wide cross-section of the community can visit and utilize the space.
• Historical Context: Beyond the memorial itself, the plaza is situated in a neighborhood with a rich history. The name "Woodside" itself reflects a transformation from "suicide's paradise" (snake-infested swamps) to a developed village, emphasizing the area's growth and evolution. The plaza stands as a modern marker in this historical narrative.

While the plaza itself does not offer goods for sale, its proximity to Woodside Avenue and Roosevelt Avenue means that visitors are within easy walking distance of various local businesses, including shops, restaurants, and other services available in the bustling commercial corridors of the neighborhood.

For local users and visitors to Woodside, the Memorial Plaza offers a unique experience as a "Scenic Spot" for reflection and daily respite:

• Visit for Quiet Reflection: If you seek a moment of peace or wish to pay respects to the local veterans, Woodside Memorial Plaza provides a fitting and contemplative environment. Take a few moments to read the inscription on the monument and appreciate the sacrifices it represents.
• Enjoy a Daytime Break: The plaza is an excellent spot to "rest yourself for a little while" during the day. Whether you're waiting for a bus, taking a lunch break, or simply need a change of scenery, the benches and greenery offer a comfortable setting. It's ideal for a casual sit-down.
• Explore the Greenstreets Initiative: As part of the Greenstreets program, the plaza exemplifies how urban spaces can be transformed into beneficial green areas. Observe the variety of plantings and how they contribute to the urban ecosystem.
• Combine with Local Exploration: The plaza's location at a major intersection makes it an ideal starting or ending point for exploring the vibrant Woodside neighborhood. You can easily combine a visit to the plaza with a walk to nearby shops, restaurants, or other local attractions along Woodside Avenue and Roosevelt Avenue.
• Be Aware of Nighttime Environment: While generally pleasant during the day, some user reviews mention that "drinking people" and "bums tend to take over during the night," which can be "very unsettling." For safety and comfort, it is advisable to visit the plaza during daylight hours.
• Attend Community Events: While not specific to the plaza, Woodside on the Move and Clearview Productions often organize events in the wider Woodside area, such as the "Woodside Fall Festival" at Woodside Memorial Park. Keep an eye on local community calendars for potential events that might utilize or be in close proximity to the plaza, offering opportunities to engage with the community.

Woodside Memorial Plaza is a valuable "Scenic Spot" that enriches the Woodside community. It serves as a poignant reminder of past sacrifices, a peaceful oasis for daily contemplation and relaxation, and an integral part of the neighborhood's green infrastructure. Its accessibility and historical significance make it a worthy destination for local users seeking a meaningful and tranquil urban experience.

Woodside Memorial Plaza

Woodside Ave, Woodside, NY 11377, USA