With the Riverwalk development no longer a threat, The Stuyvesant Cove Park Association, Inc. (SCPA) was established. With a mission “to support the development of a park along the East River and to attract people to the waterfront for education and entertainment,” the SCPA helped carry the success of CUAR through the next phase and beyond.

Stuyvesant Cove Park, stretching from 18th to 23rd Streets along the East River, was dedicated in June 2003 with financing from state, city, and federal sources. Today it stands as a testament to the strength of community and the power of commitment.

FULFILLING THE MISSION

The SCPA is committed to bringing people of all ages to the park and, throughout the years, has presented free activities and events open to all. Today, the annual free summer concert series has become the centerpiece of SCPA programming efforts.

Over the years, the SCPA has also provided financial support to Solar 1; the organization contracted to manage and maintain the park. This support has included the purchase of topsoil to replace the widespread erosion in the wake of Hurricane Sandy, fencing to protect the plant beds restored after the storm, mulch for the gardens, and Fibar, a special material that allows accessibility according to the Americans with Disabilities Act.

In 2016, in lieu of financial assistance from the Stuyvesant Cove Park Association to Solar 1 to cover unexpected costs that arose, the SCPA began paying a fee for each SCPA-hosted event held at the park. The fees cover the cost of Solar 1 staff assisting at these events and also support continued park maintenance and beautification.

The Board of Directors of The Stuyvesant Cove Park Association are all volunteers:

Martin J. Barrett, President
Jo-Ann M. Polise, Vice-President/Treasurer
Arnold S. Lehman, Esq., Secretary

Kevin O’Keefe
Charles G. Sturcken
Mark Thompson

Joy Garland, Executive Director Emeritus