"There's a huge surge in demand for recreation space without an ability to acquire new land," he said.

The only recreation space was the messrooms and they were always crowded.

Viikinsaari has mostly been in use of the working class as their recreation space since the early 20th century.

By converting some recreation space on the lower levels to storage, room was squeezed out for the purpose.

But the fields continued to be designated "interim recreation" space.

The transfer allows the city to continue its plan to transform the abandoned line into a public recreation space.

Outdoor recreation space is provided in a secure area on the roof.

They also want lights on the field and more recreation space for all of Lower Manhattan.

There will be recreation space inside the buildings, too, he said.

They called the project racist, saying it would deprive blacks of recreation space.