Introduction:

• We suggest a memorial that honors Ken Block’s contributions to the motorsports industry in recognition of his amazing career and long legacy. ​
• Through an interactive exhibition, the monument aims to capture the spirit of Block’s extraordinary journey, presenting a clear picture of his adventurous driving accomplishments, creative business endeavors, and significant influence on the automobile industry. ​
•  The memorial seeks to promote a shared understanding of Block’s cultural impact by connecting with a wide range of people through real-life monuments and physical events. This makes it a meaningful remembrance of a motorsport icon.​

Definition of the Problem:

 Why Ken Block?​

Ken Block was a legendary figure in the world of motorsports, known for his innovative style, daring stunts, and infectious enthusiasm. He transcended the traditional boundaries of rally racing, becoming a global icon and inspiration to millions. His passing in January 2023 left a void in the hearts of fans around the world.​

   Why Now?​

While tributes have been offered online and within the motorsport community, there is no permanent, physical space dedicated to Ken Block’s legacy. A memorial at Madison Park would provide a tangible and lasting tribute to his remarkable life and achievements. It would serve as a place for fans to gather, remember, and celebrate his spirit.​

  Inadequacy of Existing Commemorations:​

Current tributes to Ken Block, while heartfelt, are largely ephemeral and scattered. There is no central location where people can go to learn about his life and work, share their memories, or simply be inspired by his legacy. A dedicated memorial at Madison Park would fill this void and offer a permanent platform for remembrance and celebration.​

   The Importance of Public Engagement:​

A memorial at Madison Park would not only honor Ken Block but also engage the community. It would attract visitors from all over the world, bringing tourism and economic benefits to the area. The park would be transformed into a destination, promoting appreciation for motorsport culture and inspiring future generations of drivers. ​

Explanation of the Proposed Solution​: The memorial on Ken Block will feature a museum of Ken Block’s top cars and a statue of Ken Block in racing gear. Additionally, we will add racetracks around the park so people can race remote-controlled vehicles. We will also hold festivals every few years to invite people from all over and hold racing events for these remote-controlled vehicles. We will also place a shop that sells parts for remote-controlled vehicles.​

Conclusion: In the end we honor the career and legacy of Ken Block, he has impacted more than just rally car driving, his name can be heard from all around the world from the likes of NASCAR and F1. A memorial in Madison Square Park will be loved by all car enthusiasts and can give the city that doesn’t sleep a car icon to look back at whilst they are in Manhattan, this will be a big progression in Madison Square Park as this will be a very different memorial compared to the others. ​

Old vs New

• The playground will be replaced with the race track more geared for racing​
• The strips of land where the Admiral David Glasgow Farragut Monument and Roscoe Conkling Statue are located will also be replaced with race tracks.​
• The location of the fountain will be replaced with a statue of Ken Block in racing gear​
• The Oval Lawn will feature the following Ken Block cars(Copies): Audi S1 Hoonitron, 1965 Ford Mustang Hoonicorn RTR V2, 1978 Ford Escort Mk2 RS, 1977 FORD F-150 HOONITRUCK, 2006 Subaru Impreza WRX STI, 2011 Ford Fiesta, 1994 Ford Escort Cosworth RS – WRC (Cossie V2), 2001 Ford Escort Cosworth, 2005 Subaru WRX STI TRAX, 2010 Ford Fiesta, 2009 Ford Focus RS, 2015 Ford Fiesta ST RX43, 2017 SVCOFFROAD Ford F-150 Raptor, and 1986 Ford RS200. ​
• Lastly, Shake Shack will be replaced with a shop that sells parts for remote-controlled vehicles so people can customize and modify their RC cars​.

​