Ferry Point Park | Ocean City

Ferry Point Park is a large urban park spanning approximately 413.8 acres located in the Throggs Neck neighborhood of the Bronx, New York City. Managed by the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation, it combines natural landscapes with a diverse range of recreational facilities, serving as a significant green space and community resource along the waterfront of the East River and Long Island Sound.

Location and Geography

Ferry Point Park is situated on a peninsula bordered by Westchester Creek to the west and the East River to the east, offering extensive waterfront views. Its proximity to the water creates a dynamic environment where visitors can enjoy scenic vistas of the Manhattan skyline, the Bronx waterfront, and the surrounding waterways including Long Island Sound.

Park Layout and Zones

The park’s layout is generally divided into two main areas:

East Side

Trump Golf Links at Ferry Point: This is a public golf course designed by the renowned golfer Jack Nicklaus. It spans a significant portion of the eastern side and is notable for its links-style design, modeled after classic British seaside golf courses. It includes an 18-hole course that challenges players with its natural terrain, wind conditions, and well-maintained greens.

Community Park Features: Surrounding the golf course are other recreational amenities including a junior baseball field, basketball courts, and a playground designed for children. The area also features pedestrian trails that encourage walking, jogging, and biking, connecting various parts of the park.

Natural Features: The eastern section includes some tidal wetlands and waterfront promenades, which provide habitat for local wildlife and offer serene spots for nature observation.

West Side

Playing Fields: The western part of the park contains expansive fields primarily used for soccer and cricket. These fields are heavily utilized by local sports leagues and community groups.

Fishing and Barbecue Areas: Designated fishing spots along the waterfront provide opportunities for anglers, while picnic and barbecue areas support family and group gatherings.

9/11 Memorial Grove and Living Memorial Forest: A significant cultural and commemorative feature, this area contains approximately 3,000 trees donated by the Prince of Monaco. It serves as a living memorial dedicated to the victims of the September 11 attacks, creating a peaceful, contemplative space within the park.

Walking Paths and Trails: Extensive walking paths meander through the western side, allowing visitors to explore natural areas, enjoy birdwatching, or simply relax in a quiet environment.

Facilities and Infrastructure

Public Restroom: A modern 800-square-foot restroom facility was completed in 2018. The structure is designed with resilience in mind, featuring a raised foundation and a distinctive curved roof. It is built to withstand flooding and integrates aesthetically with the surrounding park environment. The wide stairways also serve as informal seating areas, encouraging social interaction and relaxation.

Parking and Access: There are parking facilities available for visitors arriving by car, though space can be limited during peak times. The park is accessible by public transit, including several bus lines such as the Q44 and Q50, with the Castle Hill Avenue subway station (Line 6) located within walking distance.

Ferry Service: Ferry Point Park is served by the Soundview Ferry, which provides a scenic and practical water transit option connecting to other parts of the Bronx and Manhattan, enhancing accessibility.

Environmental and Ecological Aspects

The park contains diverse ecosystems, including tidal wetlands, coastal forests, and open grassy fields. These habitats support a variety of flora and fauna native to the New York coastal region.

Efforts to preserve and restore natural areas are evident, with active community engagement in cleanups, tree plantings, and invasive species removal.

The waterfront areas are important for migratory birds and aquatic species, making the park a spot of ecological significance within an urban setting.

Community Engagement and Events

Ferry Point Park hosts a variety of community-driven events and programs:

Environmental stewardship initiatives organized by the Friends of Ferry Point Park and other local groups encourage volunteer participation in maintaining and enhancing the park’s natural resources.

Recreational leagues utilize the sports fields extensively for soccer, cricket, baseball, and basketball, contributing to active community life.

Seasonal events, including outdoor fitness classes, cultural gatherings, and memorial ceremonies, are held within the park’s diverse settings.

Visitor Experience

Visitors to Ferry Point Park can engage in a wide spectrum of activities:

Sports and exercise on well-maintained fields and courts.

Golfing at the challenging Trump Golf Links course.

Leisurely strolls along waterfront promenades with sweeping views of the East River and Manhattan skyline.

Picnicking and barbecuing in designated areas amid natural surroundings.

Fishing along the riverbanks.

Reflective visits to the 9/11 Memorial Grove, which offers a peaceful and solemn space.

Birdwatching and nature observation along trails and wetlands.

Operating Hours and Policies

The park is open daily from sunrise to sunset year-round, providing ample opportunity for daytime recreation.

It is maintained by NYC Parks, ensuring safety, cleanliness, and accessibility.

Visitors are encouraged to respect the natural environment, follow park rules, and participate in conservation efforts where possible.

Summary

Ferry Point Park stands out as a multifaceted urban park combining natural beauty, recreational amenities, cultural remembrance, and community involvement. Its waterfront location provides breathtaking views and a vital green space in the Bronx, while its facilities support a broad range of activities for diverse visitor groups. The park’s blend of ecological sensitivity and recreational infrastructure makes it a valuable asset for both local residents and visitors seeking outdoor experiences in New York City.