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Martinez Playground facts for kids

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Martinez Playground
Blue Park
Yasmeen "Yaz" Wilkerson at Blue Park.jpg
Type Urban park
Location Bushwick, Brooklyn, New York City
Created New York City Department of Parks and Recreation
Open All year
Terrain Concrete
Public transit access New York City Subway: "L" train train at Montrose Avenue

Martinez Playground is a super cool public park located in Bushwick, a neighborhood in Brooklyn, New York City. You can find it on Scholes Street, right between Manhattan and Graham Avenues. It's a popular spot for kids and teens to hang out and play!

Why is it Called Martinez Playground?

This park is named after a special person, Thelma Martinez (1918-1987). She lived in New York City her whole life. For 30 years, she lived very close to the park, in the Williamsburg Houses.

Thelma Martinez worked hard to help her neighborhood. She especially cared about this park, which used to be called Williamsburg Playground. Because of her dedication, the park was renamed in her honor.

When Did the Park Start?

The land for the park was officially set aside a long time ago. On October 10, 1957, the City of New York made an agreement. They leased the property to the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation. This allowed the land to be used as a park and playground for everyone.

What Can You Do at Martinez Playground?

Martinez Playground has lots of fun things to do! It's a great place to get active and meet friends.

Here are some of the cool facilities you'll find:

  • Basketball courts: Perfect for shooting hoops or playing a game.
  • Bathrooms: Handy when you need a break.
  • Handball courts: Great for a fast-paced game.
  • Playgrounds: Fun areas for younger kids to climb and slide.
  • Skateparks: A popular spot for skateboarders.

The "Blue Park" Skatepark

The skatepark at Martinez Playground is super famous! It's known as the Martinez Playground Skate Park, but most people call it Blue Park Skate Park or just Blue Park. It was built between 2012 and 2013.

This skatepark is unique because it's inside a basketball court. It has different "manual pads" which are like small boxes or ledges. Skaters use these for tricks. The obstacles were built by a company called California Skateparks, known for making awesome skate spots.

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