Williamsbridge Oval

History

Williamsbridge Oval is located in the Norwood section of the Bronx, New York City, and spans 19.7 acres of recreational space. The park's history dates back to the late 19th century when the area was home to the Gun Hill Williamsbridge Reservoir, which was shut down and drained in 1925.

In the 1930s, as part of President Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal programs, specifically the Works Progress Administration (WPA), the site was transformed into a public park. Construction began in 1934, and the Williamsbridge Oval Park was completed in 1937.

Design Features

The park's design preserved the oval shape of the former reservoir, with its distinctive 46-foot high embankment. Multiple large walking paths circle the oval shape, creating different experiences for visitors.

An inner walking path at ground level encircles the various recreational facilities, while an elevated upper walking path, lined with benches, provides a more secluded area for walking, running, or pushing strollers.

The park's main entrance features a large concrete tunnel located at the corner of Bainbridge Avenue and Van Cortland Ave. East, which functions as both a gateway and a shelter during sudden rainstorms.

Recreational Facilities

Williamsbridge Oval offers an impressive variety of sports facilities for the community. The park features basketball courts, tennis courts, and recently updated pickleball courts with new nets and shaded areas for players.

A turf field accommodates soccer and football games, including youth football practices for the Bronx Buccaneers team. The park also includes a running track that circles the field, popular with joggers and fitness enthusiasts.

Additional sports amenities include bocce courts, volleyball areas, and a skate park that attracts skating enthusiasts of all ages.

Children's Areas

Families with children will find multiple playgrounds throughout the park with jungle gyms, slides, and swing sets. During summer months, the popular splash pad with water fountains provides a refreshing play area for kids to cool down.

The playgrounds are well-maintained and designed for different age groups, making this a favorite destination for local families. The park also hosts regular children's activities, especially on weekends when crafts or special programs are often organized.

Community Amenities

The park includes a dog run with separate areas for different sized dogs, making it a popular spot for pet owners. Multiple picnic areas with tables provide ample space for gatherings and birthday celebrations, though cooking is limited to prepared foods only.

Williamsbridge Oval features a recreation center that offers various community programs and fitness classes, including yoga and cardio kickboxing. Public restrooms are available near the recreation center, with separate facilities for men and women.

Beautiful garden areas and plenty of shaded benches throughout the park offer peaceful spots for relaxation and enjoyment of nature within the urban environment.

Renovations and Community Impact

Over the years, Williamsbridge Oval has undergone several renovations to maintain and improve its facilities. In recent years, it has received multi-million dollar upgrades to enhance its amenities.

The park is known for its cleanliness and maintenance, with park staff working diligently to keep the grounds in good condition. Open from 6AM to 10PM daily, it provides a vital recreational space for residents of the Norwood neighborhood and surrounding areas of the Bronx.

The park hosts regular community events, particularly on Sundays, and offers various seasonal activities that bring neighbors together in this tranquil urban oasis.