Brooklyn, NY – Democratic City Council candidate Chaim Deutsch recently made several visits to Asser Levy Park to speak to neighborhood residents about current conditions and to get their input about what they would like to see there in the future.

The park, also known as Seaside Park, located on Surf Avenue between West 5th Street and Ocean Parkway, used to host the Seaside Summer Concerts, but the concerts have moved to a new location. The bandshell, badly damaged by Hurricane Sandy, is now underutilized.

“This is deplorable,” said Chaim Deutsch, candidate for the 48th District City Council seat, as he surveyed conditions in the park. “This park should be the jewel of the neighborhood.” Deutsch added that the existing antiquated bandshell should be demolished so that the space could be repurposed.”

As Deutsch walked around the park, he spoke to many neighborhood residents about how they used the park and what features it needed. Many local youths use the old bandshell stage as a skateboard rink and they told Deutsch that they would love to have a skateboard facility, as well as a special area where young people could just relax.

“This is the only public park in the neighborhood,” said Deutsch. “The playground needs updating badly and it should be enlarged to serve all of the families in the area.” Deutsch also noted the many seniors in the park and said, “A busy park is a safe park. Upgrading Asser Levy Park will ensure that all neighborhood residents have a beautiful place to enjoy.”

Many seniors also complained that there are no senior or community centers in the area. “The old bandshell footprint should be used to construct a community space that would provide resources for everyone,” said Deutsch. Deutsch vowed to do everything possible to renovate the park and would involve everyone in the neighborhood in that process.

(YWN Desk – NYC)