ATTENTION: NYC Department of Parks and Recreation Commissioner Tricia Shimamura,  NYC Comptroller Mark Levine
SPONSORS: CARRPE!  Committee for Active Recreation in Ruppert Park for Everybody 

The Issue
We support the upcoming reconstruction of Ruppert Park. However, a glaring omission in the approved plan must be corrected before procurement is complete: There is NO level space for adults to exercise individually or in a group. While the current design provides level recreation space for children and for dogs, there is no level ground for active recreation space for adults. The nearest public parks offering adult exercise spaces are over a half mile away. 

Why It Matters
A safe, level surface for active adult recreation is vital to make Ruppert Park inclusive:
 •Seniors (Ages 60+): The area around Ruppert Park has the largest percentage of older adults in Manhattan. Regular outdoor exercise and socializing are scientifically proven to build bone density, strengthen hearts, and combat Parkinson's Disease, dementia, isolation and loneliness.
 • Neighborhood Health: Parents, remote workers,  neighborhood workers, caregivers, and adults of all ages need accessible, local outdoor spaces for fresh air, physical fitness, and community connection.
Our Request
We respectfully request Comptroller Levine to pause the procurement process and Commissioner Shimamura to integrate a level surface for active recreation for adults into the park. This can be done with minor alterations within the current design framework and thoughtful planning of the not-yet-designed public restroom area. Compact, safe exercise stations would further enhance the park’s health benefits.

cc: NYCity Council Speaker Julie Menin • Manhattan Borough President Brad Hoylman-Sigal • State Senator Liz Krueger • State Assembly Member Alex Bores • State Assembly Member Rebecca Seawright • Manhattan Community Board 8 • NYC Department of Design and Construction • NYC Public Design Commission • NYC Dept for the Aging • NYC Dept of Health and Mental Hygiene • NYC City Council Committee on Aging • NYC City Council Committee on Health

SIGN THE PETITION!