Hunter’s Point South may get artificial turf

The 11-acre park planned for Long Island City’s new Hunters Point South waterfront development may come up short on natural beauty. A recently-released design reveals that the city wants to cover the park’s large lawn with artificial turf in order to minimize necessary maintenance. Real grass, Parks Department officials told community members at a recent public hearing, attracts geese and needs to be replanted on a regular basis. Nonetheless, many residents are hoping for the real thing, noting that artificial turf gets too hot to use during the summer. Additional park amenities include a water taxi at the end of Second Street that will bring commuters to Manhattan, a bike path, rehabilitated pier and a kayak launch. Community Board 2 will review the project further before the design is approved. [NYDN]