Monday March 30th, Jersey City, NJ- New City Parks joined the U.S. Soccer Foundation (USSF), the FIFA World Cup 2026 New York/New Jersey Host Committee, NJ First Gentleman Jason Hedberg, and Jersey City Public Schools to celebrate the opening of a soccer mini-pitch recently installed at Joseph H. Brensinger School PS 17. The mini-pitch is the first phase and catalyst for the redevelopment of the whole schoolyard being spearheaded by NCP as part of its Green Schoolyards Initiative. 

PS 17’s mini-pitch was installed under the USSF’s Safe Places to Play initiative, which aims to expand equitable access to soccer for communities nationwide. Mini-pitches are customized, small-sided hard-court surfaces suited for soccer programs and pick-up games. USSF’s commitment to PS 17 was made possible by the NCP team, who helped to select the site and led close engagement with students, teachers, and school administrators, who were instrumental in the design process.   

NCP secured critical funding for a larger play space renovation from an anonymous private donor and the state’s Local Recreation Improvement Grant. When completed, PS17’s vacant asphalt space will come to life with painted games, seating, trees, and plants.  

None of this would have been possible without the support of Superintendent Dr. Norma Fernandez, Assistant Superintendent Dr. Magda Savino, Francine Luce, Rafael Augusto, Ann Beirne, and Will McBride from the Jersey City Public Schools; the immense passion and dedication of the PS 17 Administration including Principal Dr. Robert Brower, Assistant Principals David Bernero and Judy Thermitus-Campbell, teachers, custodial staff, and buildings and grounds professionals whose daily work ensures that the school amenities are well used and cared for.   

“New City Parks is thrilled by this partnership and grateful to the USSF for its commitment to ensuring that kids have a place to get in the game. We know that having high quality outdoor sports and rec resources is crucial for child development, fosters better physical and mental health, and improves academic performance.” said Rose Harvey, Executive Director, New City Parks. “We were elated to see all those excited kids playing on this new mini-pitch at PS 17 and can’t wait to help deliver the larger schoolyard transformation to ensure the students and teachers of PS 17 have an engaging outdoor space for years to come.” 

PS 17 is the first of 26 new mini-pitches coming to the region as a part of USSF’s initiative ahead of FIFA World Cup 26™. More information at: https://ussoccerfoundation.org/press/new-mini-pitch-opens-in-jersey-city/ 

The PS 17 School Yard improvements are made possible through the FY 2025 Local Recreation Improvement Grant Program administered by the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs Division of Local Government Services.