Form Follows Function With New Public Fitness Equipment In Parks

YONKERS, NY — City officials hope a quarter of a million dollar investment will help to encourage the community to embrace a healthy lifestyle and take advantage of public green spaces.

Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano announced Wednesday that the City’s Department of Parks, Recreation and Conservation is ready to unveil the results of a $250,000 investment in state-of-the-art new fitness equipment at Stefanik Park on Nepperhan Avenue and Coyne Park on McLean Avenue. In celebration of the new public, outdoor gyms and to promote health and fitness, Yonkers native David Styles, better known as rapper "Styles P," will host a community celebration on August 6, from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Stefanik Park.

“Public parks are the epicenters of our neighborhoods and by continually investing in them, we are creating healthier options and improving the quality of life for residents to enjoy,” Spano said. “I am proud to partner with Styles P, who has been a long-time advocate for our community, in encouraging residents young and old to be active and enjoy the newest amenities our city has to offer.”

The city also updated fitness areas at Coyne, Singlak-Keehan, O’Boyle and Barton Parks. Coyne Park will feature senior-friendly workout equipment, such as a stationary bike, an arm bike, a cross trainer, a plyometric stepper and a leg station. The new senior citizen-focused workout area is expected to open in the fall.

Spano will join Styles P to officially unveil the fitness-minded renovations at Stefanik Park. Improvements include new workout ladders, parallel bars and jump steps. Fitness trainers will also be on hand to assist residents on the use of the equipment.

Music, refreshments, a car show and a backpack giveaway will be part of the festivities.

“It’s important to bring Yonkers, no matter age or background, together," Styles said. "The new fitness areas will provide healthy options and places to exercise at no cost. Families can bond with their kids. Youth and adults can learn from one another and maintain positive relationships through exercise ... We don’t have enough spaces like these, so our goal is to do more in the future.”