Courtesy CB5 Stream
Steve Langston, a resident of the Highland Park area, voiced his concerns about the disc golf program at the most recent CB5 meeting.
By MOHAMED FARGHALY
mfarghaly@queensledger.com
Concerns have emerged about the newly implemented disc golf program at Highland Park, with local residents raising issues about safety, harassment, and the loss of peaceful space for park goers. Representatives from the community and the New York City Disc Golf Association (NYCDGA) have presented opposing views on the matter, with each side seeking a resolution that addresses their respective concerns.
Tammy Green, a representative from the Upper Highland Park Association, voiced strong objections during the most recent Queens Community Board 5 (CB5) meeting, describing several months of escalating issues since the program’s introduction. Green, who had initially supported the program, expressed frustration that attempts to resolve the problems through community meetings with the NYCDGA had largely been ignored.
Courtesy NYCDGA
Concerns have arisen over the new disc golf course at Highland Park, with residents citing safety, harassment, and the disruption of peaceful park spaces, while the NYCDGA defends the course, highlighting its positive community impact and commitment to safety and inclusivity.
She cited discriminatory comments made toward park regulars, many of whom are of Central and South American descent, and emphasized that such behavior was unacceptable. In addition to the harassment, Green raised serious safety concerns, particularly incidents where flying discs had come dangerously close to parkgoers.
“We want to raise this issue before the Queens community board so that we can address it professionally, intellectually, and progressively,” Green said. She thanked the board for hearing the community’s concerns and expressed hope for a positive resolution.
Steve Langston, a Highland Park resident for nine years, echoed Green’s worries. He explained that the park had been a tranquil space for him and his family before the disc golf course was established. Langston, who described the discs used in the sport as “very hard plastic projectiles” capable of traveling up to 200 feet, expressed concern over the safety of parkgoers. He suggested relocating the course to a separate area to avoid conflict between disc golfers and other park users, ensuring that both groups could enjoy the park without interfering with each other.
Jasmine Chino, a mother and teacher in the area, also shared her concerns about the impact on the community. Chino explained that the park had been a “special place” for her daughter, particularly the quiet areas like the “troll bridge.” She lamented the disruption caused by the disc golf course, noting that the presence of flying discs had made the space uncomfortable for families and children.
In response to the complaints, a representative from the NYCDGA defended the program, emphasizing the positive impact the course has had on the community.
“It’s unfortunate to hear about concerns raised at the Queens CB5 meeting, as we’ve received a tremendous outpouring of support and positive feedback from the community about the course, our events, and our programming,” the NYCDGA representative stated.
The spokesperson pointed to community engagement efforts such as free teaching events, school programs, and volunteer initiatives that have contributed to the success of the course.
According to New York City Disc Golf Association (NYCDGA), the disc golf course at Highland Park has had a highly positive impact on the community over the past year. The course has introduced hundreds of local children to the sport through school programs and community events, and the NYCDGA has given away hundreds of free discs to ensure the activity remains accessible. Volunteer cleanups have enhanced the park’s natural beauty, and residents have reported that the course has improved safety by creating a rotating presence of engaged park users. The course has become a gathering place for people of all ages and backgrounds, with overwhelming feedback expressing gratitude and enthusiasm for its contribution to the community.
“Our organization’s focus is on building community through programming, education, and stewardship,” the representative said. “Our aim is to be nothing but a positive presence in the community and we take feedback and community engagement very seriously.”
The NYCDGA highlighted the impact the course has had on local children, introducing hundreds of them to the sport through school programs and events. Additionally, the group has organized volunteer cleanups to remove litter and improve the park’s natural beauty.
“While Highland Park is free and open to all, we understand that some park users may not be affiliated with the NYCDGA. We actively remind our players to prioritize safety and respect, and have worked with the Parks Department to install clear signage at every hole that states, ‘Safety is the top priority. Never throw until the hole is clear of all people.'”
The NYCDGA representative emphasized that safety is a top priority and pointed to the organization’s efforts to mitigate risks by installing signage at every hole reminding players not to throw until the area is clear of people. The representative also stressed the organization’s commitment to inclusivity and ensuring the park remains a welcoming space for all park users.
“Disc golf is built on respect—respect for the land, for other park users, and for the game itself,” the NYCDGA representative said. “This ethos is central to the NYCDGA’s mission, and we are deeply committed to ensuring that Highland Park remains a welcoming, mixed-use space for everyone. Our organization is dedicated to being a positive, inclusive presence in the community and to fostering connections among park users.”
As both sides continue to express their concerns, the future of the disc golf program remains uncertain. While the NYCDGA defends the positive impact of the course, local residents are calling for changes that would allow both disc golfers and other parkgoers to coexist peacefully. The issue remains unresolved, but ongoing discussions are expected as the community works toward finding a solution.
“It is our mission and personal commitment to be nothing but a positive presence in this community,” NYCDGA said. “We are passionate about stewarding green spaces, fostering inclusivity, and creating opportunities for connection through disc golf.”
