In addition, more than 1.2 million cubic yards of clean soil, up to four feet deep, was spread across the site and more than 35,000 trees and shrubs were planted. The addition of prairie grass and native plantings prevents erosion and has created a diverse ecosystem of more than 400 acres of coastal meadows, wetlands, and woodlands that have attracted local wildlife. The full remediation and restoration of the site was completed with significant community input in 2009. Under the agreement with the National Park Service and the City of New York, New York State Parks will plan, develop, open and operate the public park in cooperation with the Department of the Interior, the National Park Service and the New York City Department of Environmental Protection, which will continue to manage the former landfill infrastructure.

New York State Parks Commissioner Rose Harvey said, "Thank you Governor Cuomo for your continued pursuit of creating and expanding public access in our communities and thank you to the National Parks Service and City of New York in helping bring access to this special waterfront at Shirley Chisholm State Park at Gateway National Recreation Area."

New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio said, "Parks and green spaces are essential to New Yorkers, and I'm excited that the creation of this new park will help give more residents access to outdoor activities. My administration will continue working with the State to push this vital project forward."

New York City Public Advocate Letitia James said, "The Vital Brooklyn Initiative has been crucial for a community that has long been underserved. This initiative has provided the men, women and children of Brooklyn with quality education and health resources that were previously unavailable to them. Today's announcement to open Shirley Chisholm State Park, NYC's largest state park, will create an incredible green open-space environment for our community. I thank Governor Cuomo for his vision of a stronger Brooklyn."

Congresswoman Yvette Clarke said, "Through the expansion of open spaces and recreational areas, Governor Cuomo's Vital Brooklyn initiative is improving the health and well-being of Brooklyn residents every day. The addition of the Shirley Chisholm State Park will encourage Brooklynites to explore the outdoors and the natural wonders of our great state, while getting the exercise they need to maintain a healthy lifestyle. I applaud Governor Cuomo for his leadership on this initiative and for his commitment to bettering the Brooklyn community."

Senator Kevin Parker said, "The public spaces, recreational activities, and miles of hiking trials in Shirley Chisholm Park will provide a vibrant cultural and social experience for Central Brooklyn residents. Governor Cuomo's dedication to ensuring the health and well-being of Brooklynites is unmatched, and I am especially grateful for the Vital Brooklyn Initiative." Senator Roxanne Persaud said, "As a Brooklyn resident, I know first-hand how hard it can be to find well-maintained green space. Parks are more than just a gathering place—they are an opportunity for families to spend quality time, for children and adults to learn, and for people to take advantage of all the great outdoors have to offer. Parks help keep families close, encourage our youth to explore, and provide residents with a place to partake in outdoor recreation. I thank Governor Cuomo for spearheading this initiative and for recognizing the importance of parks in the everyday lives of New Yorkers across the state." Assembly Member Maritza Davila said, "Since he took office, Governor Cuomo has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to helping revitalize our community. While others talked the talk, Governor Cuomo walked the walk. Today's announcement is no different, as the Governor is providing our community with New York City's largest State Park. I commend Governor Cuomo for this initiative that will benefit all residents of Central Brooklyn, young and old."

Assembly Member Erik Martin Dilan said, "I applaud the creation of this park, the largest in New York City, for bringing much needed open space to Brooklyn. This investment will completely transform the area, and I thank Governor Cuomo for prioritizing the health and well-being of our residents."

Assembly Member Latrice Walker said, "For far too long, our community has been neglected—without access to quality healthcare, quality food, and quality green open spaces. Governor Cuomo's Vital Brooklyn Initiative has changed the circumstances for our community, helping to transform Central Brooklyn—and today's announcement only enhances that transformation. The creation of Shirley Chisholm State Park is a welcome addition to our community, and I thank Governor Cuomo for his commitment to the people of Central Brooklyn."

New York City Council Member Robert E. Cornegy said, “Governor Cuomo’s Vital Brooklyn initiative continues to deliver for our borough and those who call Brooklyn home. Green space and clean, safe outdoor recreation are some of our community's critical needs, and now, with hiking and biking trails, kayaking, and more, Brooklyn residents will have opportunities to enjoy the outdoors like never before. I thank the Governor for his continued support for the people of Brooklyn, their health, and their happiness.”

New York City Council Member Laurie A. Cumbo said, "I am thrilled at today's announcement by Governor Andrew Cuomo of Shirley Chisholm State Park, which is set to open in 2019 and will be the largest state park in New York City. Shirley Chisholm is a personal she-ro of mine, and given how much she provided to the people of Brooklyn over the course of her life, I am proud that we are able to honor her legacy with this amazing green space that will continue to enrich the lives of our children, families, and communities for generations to come!"

New York City Council Member Mathieu Eugene said, "This new state park will provide Brooklyn with the beautiful open space outlet that this community has long desired. This park will serve as an epicenter for all Brooklynites, a healthy and safe environment for children to play, and for families to convene. I commend Governor Cuomo on his continued investment and dedication to our community."