Brooklyn Middle School Upgrades Worn Schoolyard Into Green, Flood-Proof Field

Trust for Public Land on Tuesday celebrated the grand opening of a newly revitalized schoolyard at P.S. 180, The SEEALL Academy in Borough Park.

The project transformed what was once a worn, mostly asphalt playground into a vibrant, green, and welcoming space designed to benefit students during the school day and the entire neighborhood after hours. 

The new schoolyard features a storm-water capturing turf soccer field, a running track, volleyball court and basketball practice hoops, colorful play equipment, an outdoor classroom, shade trees, gardens and other permeable surfaces that reduce flooding and help cool the area.

“Every child deserves a safe, welcoming place to play and learn outdoors, and today we are proud to deliver that for the students of P.S. 180 and the surrounding Brooklyn community,” said Tamar Renaud, New York State Director for Trust for Public Land. “This schoolyard is more than a playground—it’s a climate-smart community hub that will improve health, support learning, and bring neighbors together.” 

Designed with input from students, families and educators, the schoolyard reflects the unique needs and character of P.S. 180 while offering opportunities for active play, creative learning, and quiet reflection. By continuing to keep the schoolyard open to the community during non-school hours, TPL ensures that this new green space serves not only the school but also thousands of residents who live in an area that has long lacked sufficient access to quality parks. 

The renovated schoolyard will provide over 28,000 residents with a park within a 10-minute walk, capture 1.7 million gallons of flood water a year, and the new 27 trees will provide cooling and shelter to families. 

“As climate change threatens our city with stronger storms and more intense rains, we need to adapt and find new ways to relieve pressure on our sewers and keep our streets from flooding. Green Infrastructure playgrounds like the new one at P.S. 180 are crucial to our flood mitigation efforts,” said New York City Chief Climate Officer and Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Rohit T. Aggarwala.

Across the country, TPL has transformed more than 350 schoolyards, creating dynamic outdoor spaces that boost student health and learning, reduce neighborhood heat and absorb stormwater.