We’re spotlighting our team – the people who show up every day to make Brooklyn Bridge Park the special place that it is. Today, we highlight JoJo Fernandez, Facilities Management Supervisor.
Q: Tell us a little bit about yourself!
A: My name is Jojo. I’m the Facilities Management Supervisor. This is a nice place to work, and we all really appreciate being here. To be honest, when I’m at work, I’m in a working mentality. I don’t feel like it’s just me—I feel like I’m part of something bigger like I’m everyone. It’s a team effort, and we’re all working together to make the park great.
I was born in Queens, but I was raised in Brooklyn. It’s a distinction I always make. Growing up in Brooklyn shaped me.
Q: Growing up in Brooklyn, did you know this park before working here?
A: To be honest with you, no. I hadn’t really spent time in this neighborhood or seen the park before I started working here. It’s kind of funny because I’ve lived in the city my whole life, but this area just wasn’t on my radar. I really wish I had spent more time here earlier. It’s such a beautiful place, and I feel lucky to have the chance to see it every day now.
Q: How long have you worked here, and what’s your background?
A: I’ve been here for about two years. Before this, my background was in electrical work. I went to school for it and worked as an electrician for a couple of years. But when COVID hit, things changed. I needed to look for new work, and that’s when I found this job. I came here originally for electrical work, but since then, I’ve learned so much more. This job has made me more well-rounded because we don’t just stick to one thing here. I’ve picked up plumbing, carpentry, and a little bit of everything else.
Q: What are the best parts of working here?
A: The best part of working here is the environment and the sense of community. It’s not just about the park itself—it’s about how the park brings people together. It’s a space where people can come and relax, where kids can play, and where families can make memories. And for us working here, it’s about helping create that environment. We all pitch in to make this a special place, and that feels really good.
Q: Do you have a favorite memory from your time working here?
A: Every day here is a new memory. That’s one of the things I like about this job—you never know what’s going to happen. One day you’re working on one project, and the next day you’re doing something completely different. I think my favorite memories are just the times when the whole team was together. Back when we had a bigger team, it was great seeing everyone from different cultures working together and supporting each other. People move on to new opportunities, but you still miss that connection.
Q: What’s the best time of day in the park?
A: I’d say the best time is in the evening when the park is more active and full of life. It’s great to see so many people enjoying the space. But during the daytime, when we’re working, it’s nice too because we have the room to get things done. We can spread out and focus on the tasks we need to finish. So, for us workers, daytime is probably the best.
Q: Do you ever visit the park on your days off?
A: Yeah, I do sometimes. I’ll bring my kids, and we’ll walk around and explore. It’s nice to show them what I do here and let them enjoy the park, but honestly, they’re not always excited about coming into the city. They’re like, “Dad, we’ve already seen this,” and I have to remind them how special it is.
Q: What’s your favorite part of the park?
A: My favorite part of the park is actually the building—the headquarters. That’s where we plan everything for the year, and it’s a central hub for what we do. But if we’re talking about being outside, I’d say my favorite spot is under the bridge. There’s something monumental about that space. People from all over the world come here, and you can stand next to anyone—a tourist, a local, even a billionaire—and share a moment. It’s really special.
Q: What’s something you wish more people knew about the park?
A: I wish more people knew that it’s free to visit. There’s no cost to come and enjoy this space, and it’s such a great resource for the community. Sometimes people don’t realize they can just walk in and experience everything the park has to offer.
Q: How do you imagine the park will change in the future?
A: I think it’s only going to get better. It’ll become even more beautiful, peaceful, and safe. I see it as a place where more kids can grow up in a positive environment and where families can create lasting memories.
Q: Do you have a go-to spot in the park for peace?
A: For peace, I’d probably go to the Greenway. It’s a nice place to walk and look out at the water. The park has so many little spots where you can find a moment of quiet if you need it.
Q: Why is this job one of the best you’ve had?
A: This job gives me the freedom to be myself. They see my work and value me as an asset, not a liability. I don’t have to pretend to be someone I’m not, and that’s rare in a workplace. It’s the best job I’ve ever had.