On February 26, Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz joined students from P.S. 10, city officials and local lawmakers in cutting the ribbon at the new recreation and education center at the Park Slope Armory.

BP Markowitz was joined by City Council Member Bill de Blasio, Department of Homeless Services Commissioner Robert Hess, Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Linda Gibbs and Deputy Mayor for Economic Development Robert C. Lieber. Pending final approval, the YMCA will manage the facility.

The $16 million renovation includes a track and field center, gymnastics, boxing, fencing, weightlifting and martial arts. The Brooklyn Borough President’s Office allocated $2 million to the project, which was led by the nonprofit organization Take the Field. The armory also houses a women’s homeless shelter.

“The transformation of the Park Slope Armory into of the City’s largest community recreation and education centers is the culmination of a dream I’ve had since before being elected Borough President,” said BP Markowitz. “As a resident of Park Slope, I treasure the historic value of this magnificent building and know the importance of providing Brooklynites of all athletic abilities with a safe, affordable and convenient place to exercise both mind and body. Of course, now I have no excuse for not hitting the track and running a few laps!”