Top 10 Prospect Park Stories of 2012

Prospect Park, Brooklyn’s celebrated greenspace with 585 acres, has made headlines many times this year from concerts, to comas to crime.

As the New Year approaches, let's take a look back at the most memorable stories of 2012.

1. 

The damage was immense, with several of the park's massive trees felled by winds that reached up to 85 mph in some parts of the city.

2. 

Music Island and a new esplanade will be dedicated on Friday, though officials say the rink won't open until next fall.

3. Elusive 'Ghost Dog' Haunts Prospect Park No More (and Ghost Dog is Ready for Adoption)

The 100-plus pound Cane Corso has been spirited out of Prospect Park for good.

4. GoogaMooga Refund Highlights Festival's SNAFUs

Free attendees and ticket buyers alike reported a wide range of issues from cell phone connectivity to a shortage of food.

5. Bye Bye Birdie: Prospect Park's Audubon Center to End Open Hours

While the facility will still be available for programs and rentals, the days of dropping in are coming to a close.

Park Volunteer in Medically Induced Coma After Being Hit by Bike

A 55-year-old woman is in critical condition after a biker hit her on West Drive.

7. Proposed Changes to Prospect Park's Drive Hope to Make Road Safer for All Users

The plan will reduce the number of lanes for cars and separate bikers and pedestrians with a three-foot buffer.

8. Friend or Foe? Prospect Park Lake's Azolla Issue

Green gunk has covered Prospect Park lake. But is it hazardous or not?

9. Joaquin Phoenix and Marion Cotillard Shoot Film in Prospect Park

Directed by James Gray, the untitled film is about a Polish immigrant who becomes a vaudeville dancer.

10. 

According to the NYPD’s 78th Precinct, there have been 17 robberies this year, as compared to only seven last year.

Did we leave out your most memorable Prospect Park story? Let us know in the comments.