Several local leaders, community members and organizations celebrated the opening of the newly renovated basketball courts at Fort #4 Playground, located at 2890 Sedgwick Ave., within the Washington’s Walk park in Kingsbridge, on Monday, April 13.
The full basketball court and half court at the park received redone pavement and color-seal coating. A drinking fountain and bottle filler were also installed. Other improvements included a reconstructed concrete ramp and stairs, as well as new plantings. All these upgrades are intended to provide a safer play surface for those who use the court, improve pedestrian circulation and enhance accessibility.
Funding for this $500,000 project was provided by the New York City Council and Mayor’s Office. The project was also made possible through collaboration between the Sedgwick Park Friends Group, Theory 9, local leaders and community partners, who all share a vision to strengthen neighborhoods through investment in youth and public places.
Among those on hand to join community members in celebrating this occasion were NYC Parks Bronx Borough
“These visually striking basketball courts give Bronx hoops enthusiasts a refreshed and inviting new place to hone their skills. By upgrading the pavement, coating and court design, and adding a water fountain with bottle filler, we’ve made this playground better than ever,” Aponte said.
“At NYC Parks, we’re committed to improving recreational amenities for all New Yorkers, with an emphasis on communities that need it the most.”
The upgrades to the basketball courts mark the latest improvements made to Washington’s Walk. The park’s Strong Street Playground recently underwent a $3.04 million full reconstruction, with NYC Parks completing it in June 2025.
“The reconstruction of the basketball courts at Fort #4 Playground is a significant investment in the health and wellness of our borough,” Gibson said.
“These modernized courts create new opportunities for our youth and families to stay active, build community and participate in healthy competition. I want to thank NYC Parks, the New York City Council and the Mayor’s Office for their continued investment in our public spaces and for ensuring our Bronx neighborhoods have safe recreational spaces for our residents and families to connect and engage in physical activity.”
These improvements marked the first renovations to Fort #4 Playground since 1998. The latest improvements were driven by a commitment to providing local youths with a safe, engaging and accessible space to gather, play and grow. They reflect the needs and vision of local residents.
“This revitalized space is now a safe haven, a place where young people can not only develop their athletic skills, but their confidence, discipline and sense of belonging. A place where positive energy replaces negativity. A place where the next generation can dream bigger,” Seagers said.
“Fort #4 Playground has always been a place where kids come together. Now, it’s a space that reflects pride, opportunity and a stronger future.”
Washington’s Walk, located along the southern edge of the Jerome Park Reservoir, carries historical significance to the borough. It once held a Revolutionary War fort that was built under the leadership of George Washington. From 1866 to 1894, a thoroughbred horse racing park, known as the Jerome Park Racetrack, operated there. The site has been under the jurisdiction of NYC Parks ever since the City purchased the land in 1895.
“This project started with the young people who use this court every day, and I’m proud we were able to bring their vision to life,” Council Member Sanchez said.
“Washington’s Walk Fort #4 is a community park with a long history dating back to the 1700s, and it sits at the tip of Education Mile, across from the Kingsbridge Armory. This $500,000 investment ensures the court is safe and accessible for the youth and neighbors who rely on it—from after-school games to time together in the warmer months. I thank the NYC Department of Parks for their partnership in completing this project and look forward to seeing the community continue to make full use of the space.”
