Courtesy prospectpark.org
‘Dream come true’: Morgan Monaco tapped as new head of Prospect Park Alliance
Chosen her for her "extensive knowledge of park equity and community development," Monaco is the park's first Black administrator
Prospect Park Alliance has named Morgan Monaco as its new president and park administrator, filling a position left open eight months ago after her predecessor, Sue Donoghue, was tapped to run NYC Parks.
Described as a “longtime New York City public servant,” Monaco was chosen her for her “extensive knowledge of park equity and community development” by the Alliance and NYC Parks. The 38-year-old is also the alliance’s first Black president.
Monaco has deep Brooklyn ties, most recently as the executive director of the Red Hook Initiative, a community organization that serves the roughly 6,500 residents living in the borough’s largest public house development. Prior to that, she worked in the city’s mayor’s office of operations holding various roles.
“As a born-and-raised New Yorker whose first high school internship was with NYC Parks, it is a dream come true to be able to steward one of the most significant parks in our city,” Monaco said in a press release.
Monaco, who currently lives in Windsor Terrace, plans to leverage her past non-profit experience in the new role, with the release stating that she’s exploring ways to bring more “social services to the park” and more programs focused on health, wellness and other services that help residents thrive.”
In an interview with the New York Times, Donoghue praised Monaco as a “great choice” because she “realizes the importance of open space for all, equitable access to open space for all and the importance of having Prospect Park be a welcoming place for all.”
Monaco also has her challenges ahead as well, most notably around the recent killing of a Brooklynite’s dog that has inflamed the surrounding community. Monaco told the Times that crime in general is low, but that safety is a focus area.
“In this particular case, it shines light on the need for outreach services for people suffering from mental illnesses and emotionally disturbed persons who could benefit from social services rather than the criminal justice system,” she said, adding that the ultimate goal is “to work hand in hand with both areas to support the safety of all parkgoers.”
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