Officials on Thursday celebrated the completion of a $5 million renovation of Cuyler Gore Park.
Photo courtesy of Hannah Mrakovčić/NYC Parks
The nearly 200-year-old Cuyler Gore Park in Fort Greene has a new look after a massive renovation.
Purchased by the city in 1845 for just $1, the park — though beloved — had not been renovated since the 1980s. Former council member Laurie Cumbo secured the initial funding for reconstruction back in 2021, and the project was finished under the leadership of her successor, Council Member Crystal Hudson.
“For nearly two centuries, Cuyler Gore has been a critical public space for Brooklynites to relax and connect with their neighbors,” said parks commissioner Tricia Shimamura, in a statement. “This renovation completely rejuvenates the park with new features that New Yorkers of all ages will love, from new spray showers and seating to an upgraded stage for music and community events.”
The renovation included an all-new playground with modern equipment. Photo courtesy of Hannah Mrakovčić/NYC Parks
The park now has an all-new playground with modern equipment, new spray showers and additional trees and greenery, and new seating and benches. A formerly empty part of Cuyler Gore — which used to be part of Cumberland Avenue and was closed and made part of the park in 1983 — was turned into a new seating area.
In 2021, the city hosted multiple public information sessions to gather community input on the park’s renovation. Neighbors said the park’s small elevated stage was a critical part of the community, and played frequent host to small musical programs and events.
In response, the parks department rebuilt and upgraded the stage, the agency said, with new structural supports and concrete steps.
The park also received new seating and greenery. Photo courtesy of Hannah Mrakovčić/NYC Parks 
The design was informed by community feedback beginning in 2021. Photo courtesy of Hannah Mrakovčić/NYC Parks
“Projects like this ensure that our shared greenspaces are safe and welcoming for all,” Shimamura continued. “We’re grateful to Council Member Crystal Hudson for funding this project, and to all our partners in the community who have helped us make this major upgrade a reality.”
First privately owned by developer George S. Howland, Cuyler Gore Park was a passive green space with well-kept lawns and shrubs for 100 years. After falling into disrepair in the 60s and 70s, it was expanded upgraded with playground equipment and more amenities in the 1980s.