For the average onlooker, this just looks like a tiny slab of concrete space in between a few streets. For the most New Yorkers, this is practically a pocket park, which save for the bit of trees and park benches, is just another ordinary urban terrain. Look a little deeper and it's really a historical space that highlights another time in Corona, Queens.
Formally known as the Corona Heights Triangle, the park is officially named William F Moore, a local hero who killed during active duty in World War I. Everyone else who knows this place will call it "Spaghetti Park" as a nod to what was a mini Little Italy in the borough. Italian immigrants have long vacated , opening the doors to what is now predominantly Dominican and Colombian communities but a few old school spots remain.
The Lemon Ice King of Corona (#1) as well as Park Side (#2) both are quintessential Italian owned businesses that are still holding their own but are among the last of their generation. There are probably more businesses, but these are certainly the most prominent.
In addition, it's one of the only parks in NY that has a dedicated space for bocce ball (#3), which even its much larger neighboring park counterpart (#4) doesn't have to offer. It is a true landmark of New York and despite its diminutive space, is still a great place to people watch, play cards, and enjoy a little bit of the great (urban) outdoors.
___________
(#1) https://www.yelp.com/biz/the-lemon-ice-king-of-corona-corona-2
(#2) https://www.yelp.com/biz/park-side-restaurant-corona-2
(#3) If that's not Italian, I don't know what is.
(#4) Flushing Meadows Corona Park: https://www.yelp.com/biz/flushing-meadows-corona-park-flushing read more