Community weighs in on potential redevelopment proposal at historic New Rochelle park
People in the New Rochelle community are pushing back over potential plans to redevelop a portion of a beloved park.
People in the New Rochelle community are pushing back over potential plans to redevelop a portion of a beloved park.
The city recently issued a "master redeveloper proposal" for a portion of Flowers Park.
That proposal says in part, "The City of New Rochelle is seeking an exceptional development partner to help reimagine approximately 20 acres in the heart of Flowers (City) Park into a world-class community sports center of excellence -- a destination that inspires athletic achievement, fuels community pride, and drives economic vitality."
Officials with the city say this could be a public-private partnership that will blend state-of-the-art sports and recreation facilities for all members of the community.
The proposal is also aiming to address flooding concerns in the area.
People in the community say they are not on board. They have concerns about privatizing the park and the impact it could have on the community.
"Generation after generation of families have played here. It's widely known as the premier youth athletic complex in Westchester County. There is no reason to change it or destroy it at this point," says Michael Fosina.
The Joseph F. Fosina Field at the park was named after Michael Fosina's father.
"Joe Fosina Field was named in 1997 as an honor to my father for over 50 years of dedicated volunteer service to the youth of New Rochelle," he tells News 12.
Fosina and others say that this park has been a big part of the community for decades, especially for many sports leagues. People in the community say this is a special place for kids of all ages.
"It brings people from all parts of New Rochelle for one common cause and typically, it's the kids," says Robert Fernandez.
Flowers Park was named after his uncle.
Community members spoke out against the potential proposal on Wednesday night at New Rochelle City Hall.
Some council members are also raising concerns about the process behind it.
"It is very concerning that as council members we have not seen anything about this project," says New Rochelle Councilman Albert Tarantino.
Officials with the city say community feedback is welcome and will be considered before any decision is made.
"Not a single decision has been made, nothing has come to city council for a vote. We are committed to transparency," says New Rochelle Mayor Yadira Ramos-Herbert.
More meetings on the issue are expected in the coming weeks and months.
