Accessibility Info
PARK FACT:
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Murray Playground
45 Ave., 45 Rd. bet. 11 St. and 21 St.
Queens
Directions: Google Maps | MTA Trip Planner
Acres: 2.52
John F. Murray (1889-1944) was a lifetime Queens resident and a dedicated recreation supervisor for Queens parks for many years. Although his Parks job kept him busy, he also devoted much of his time to a variety of other activities.
Murray supervised the Long Island City Knights of Columbus, the local chapter of the famous Roman Catholic fraternal order. The association organized blood donation campaigns and sports programs for youths, promoted religious activities, and articulated Catholic opinion on social issues. In 1944, the New York Chapter of the Knights of Columbus became the holder of the permit for the Columbus Day Parade. Murray also helped supervise recreational activities for the Elmhurst Elks, another neighborhood fraternal society. He also organized local boxing tournaments and in particular, trained prizefighters. He and his wife, Catherine, had two sons, Colonel John Murray and Captain William Murray, who both served in the army.
Know Before You Go
There are currently 2 construction projects taking place in this park that are affecting access to its amenities.
This project at John F. Murray Park will convert the existing asphalt ballfield into a synthetic turf softball field located just west of the playground. This will include drainage system improvements, new ADA accessible dugouts and drinking fountains, a bike rack, and a misting station. It is part of the Asphalt-to-Turf PlaNYC project. Once the construction of the ballfields at Grover Cleveland Park ends, work at John F. Murray Ballfield will begin.
Anticipated Completion: Summer 2011
This project is for a new comfort station serving John F. Murray Playground bounded by 45th Ave., 24th St., 45th Rd. and 11th St. It will provide much-needed bathroom facilities in a popular area of the park.
Anticipated Completion: Winter 2012
