Harris Park

History

Tucked into the Bronx borough of New York City, Harris Park sits near Jerome Park and Van Cortlandt Park in the Bedford Park neighborhood. The park honors Father John Joseph Harris, a Yonkers native who devoted his life to working with young people.

The New York City Department of Parks and Recreation acquired the land in 1940, developing it into an athletic facility with help from the Federal Work Projects Administration during a time when public works projects were reshaping the city's landscape.

Features and Amenities

At the heart of Harris Park are its sports fields and courts, which draw locals looking for a place to play and compete. The expansive green space offers a welcome break from the urban surroundings, with baseball fields representing the main attraction.

Fitness enthusiasts appreciate the exercise equipment and pull-up bars scattered across the grounds. If you're looking to relax instead, you'll find picnic tables and benches well-suited for catching your breath, enjoying lunch, or just watching the world go by.

Its location near Lehman College and the Bronx High School of Science makes the park a natural hangout for students. The versatile open fields accommodate various sports, however baseball and soccer games are what you'll most commonly see on any given day.

Playground and Recreation

Families with kids gravitate toward the playground area near Paul Avenue. It's nothing fancy, but it provides a safe space where children can climb, swing, and burn off energy while parents chat nearby.

The park's generous open areas offer plenty of room for joggers, casual sports, and other activities. Dog owners particularly appreciate the spacious layout, as it's dog-friendly with ample space for four-legged friends to stretch their legs.

Facilities

You can find clean, well-stocked restrooms with multiple stalls, including handicap-accessible options. These facilities are kept in good condition - a small but important detail that makes visits more comfortable.

During baseball season, the atmosphere transforms as recreational leagues take over the fields, bringing families and fans who create a lively community vibe. One drawback to note: the lack of lighting on the fields means activities typically wrap up when the sun sets.

Renovations

The park got a significant refresh in 1997 thanks to a $555,000 renovation funded by the local city council. The improvements included upgrades to the playground, new asphalt paving, fences, benches, trees, picnic tables, and an enhanced water supply system.

The ballfields - the crown jewels of Harris Park - were completely reconstructed during this renovation, with fresh turf that revitalized the playing experience for local athletes.