Prospect Park Plans To Revitalize Rose Garden Into Nature Area

PARK SLOPE, NY — A long-dormant section of Prospect Park, filled with three empty concrete fountains, could be revitalized as a natural space to attract birds and butterflies under a new plan.

The Prospect Park Alliance released a report Wednesday on reimagining the Rose Garden after a months-long survey of park goers on what they want the space to become.

"The many people we talked to were clear: the area must be open, accessible and inclusive of the diverse communities that border the Rose Garden and use the space," said Betsy MacLean, executive director of the non-profit Hester Street which partnered with the park for the survey, in a statement.

The Rose Garden — hidden away in the northeast section of the park — originally had three vibrant concrete fountains but they have been empty and the roses have been gone for decades, according to the park.

Last summer, the Alliance teamed up with Hester Street and the Grain Collective to poll residents on what should be done with the space. The survey found park goers loved the hidden vibe of the spot but wanted it spruced up with native plantings and a focus on nature.

The report calls spruce up the three fountains with a different purpose around the community's goals. The first would have native plantings to attract birds and butterflies. The second with a natural play area and small space for ecological programs.

At the last fountain near the new Flatbush Avenue park entrance, the report calls to make a grassy amphitheater to host storytelling, dance and music performances.

The park plans to figure out a budget for the revitalization of the Rose Garden and refine the plans then work on getting the necessary funds to make it a reality.

Image: Prospect Park Alliance