Abolitionist Place Park Opens To Public In Downtown BK

BROOKLYN, NY — The New York City Economic Development Corporation and Downtown Brooklyn Partnership held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to commemorate the opening of Abolitionist Place on Wednesday.

The new 1.15-acre public space on Duffield and Willoughby streets has been a project two decades in the making, according to officials.

The new open space includes a children’s play area, lawn, dog run, ornamental plantings, water play feature and multiple seating areas.

Abolitionist Place will be managed and programmed by DBP.

In 2019, the city renamed Willoughby Square Open Space to Abolitionist Place, commemorating the 19th century Abolitionist Movement and its significant ties to Brooklyn.

“High-quality public spaces aren’t just a luxury — they’re a necessity, and they’re a key to our city’s economic recovery,” said New York City Mayor Eric Adams. “Abolitionist Place will provide Downtown Brooklyn with that vital community space while also paying tribute to the role that this neighborhood played in the Abolitionist Movement.”

Regina Myer, President, Downtown Brooklyn Partnership, called the opening of Abolitionist Place ‘‘a significant moment for Downtown Brooklyn.’

“Abolitionist Place will bring essential green space to our burgeoning population of residents, workers, and students, while also celebrating the neighborhood’s notable history, Myer added. “As we begin maintaining and programming in the park, we look forward to welcoming the community to this long-awaited public square.”