Ella P. Scantlebury Park

Community Hub

Tucked into New Haven's Dixwell neighborhood, Ella P. Scantlebury Park is a well-loved green space. This clean, safe space functions as a genuine gathering spot where community happens naturally, drawing in both neighborhood residents and folks from across the city.

The park's story stretches back 20-30 years, and it continues to be maintained through grassroots care. The Friends of Scantlebury Park group, working alongside the Urban Resources Initiative (URI), helps maintain and develop this green space.

Recreational Offerings

On any given day, you can find this place buzzing with activity. Families from Dixwell mingle with visitors who've traveled from other parts of New Haven, creating a diverse mix of park-goers.

Some amenities have developed quite the reputation beyond the immediate neighborhood. The skate park draws skateboarding enthusiasts from around the city, while the pickleball courts have become something of a hotspot for players of this increasingly popular sport.

If you're looking to stay active, you've got options. Shoot some hoops at the basketball courts, practice your serve at the tennis courts, or get a full-body workout on the outdoor exercise equipment, complete with calisthenics bars for pull-ups and dips. Runners and walkers appreciate the double walking path that conveniently connects to the Farmington Canal Trail - making it super accessible by bike from downtown and nearby neighborhoods.

Family-Friendly Features

Kids are definitely not an afterthought here. The playground areas are separated into spaces for little ones and older children, with cushioned ground surfaces for safety.

When summer temperatures climb, the splash pad becomes the place to be, offering a refreshing escape for overheated children. Throughout the playground areas, you'll discover multiple swing sets that cater to different ages and abilities.

Planning to make a day of it? The park is equipped with several barbecue grill stations and picnic areas that make family gatherings or impromptu meetups easy and enjoyable. There's even a free book station where you can grab something to read while relaxing in the shade.

Ongoing Improvements

Ella P. Scantlebury Park combines older features with newer additions. The landscape includes mature trees providing shade alongside newer plantings.

In 2023, dedicated volunteers refreshed the grounds by maintaining existing trees, creating new mulch rings, and adding flower plantings near the skate park area.

Amenities

Several amenities are available throughout the park. You'll come across water fountains throughout when you need to hydrate, plus a bike station complete with electric bikes for those looking to explore further. Safety features include emergency blue phones with alarm buttons positioned strategically around the park.