Queens, NY – Assemblywoman Nily Rozic (D,WF-Fresh Meadows) hosted a groundbreaking ceremony at P.S.163 to announce a $234,000 state grant she was able to secure for the school to build a new playground. The playground was in a state of disrepair with many components of the jungle gym being unstable and the ground padding heavily worn out, creating a safety hazard for the students.

“Play is a big part of a child’s school day and playground equipment needs to remain safe for students during school hours and community use after hours,” said Assemblywoman Rozic. “I’m proud to have secured funding to revamp this important space and install new equipment for current and future generations of children.”

“On behalf of the entire P.S. 163Q community, we extend our heartfelt thanks to Assemblywoman Nily Rozic for securing this state funding for our new playground, said Principal Francine A. Marsaggi. “Her support means the world to our students, families, and staff, as it will provide a safe and fun space for our children to play and grow. We are deeply grateful for Rozic’s commitment to enriching our school and neighborhood, and this playground will make a lasting impact for years to come. Thank you for helping us build a brighter future for our community!”

"Investing in our school playgrounds allows for learning to continue well beyond the classroom walls. Recreational spaces that are safe, fun and modernized are essential for our students physical and social development, and we thank Assemblywoman Rozic, Principal Marsaggi, and all the students, parents, and teachers who have advocated on behalf of this critical improvement to the PS 163Q school community, said State Senator John Liu."

P.S.163 is located on 59th Avenue and 159th Street in Flushing and offers classes from Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 5. Additional community investments recently announced by Rozic include $250,000 for Flushing schools P.S.24 and P.S.120 for auditorium renovations and a new security system, respectively; as well as $550,000 for infrastructure enhancements at the Queens Centers for Progress.