Elizabeth Street Garden Fights Eviction in NYC
Elizabeth Street Garden is fighting to stay put in New York City. The serene green oasis in the Nolita (North of Little Italy) section of Manhattan is about to be evicted but like a true New Yorker this city gem is not going out without a fight.
**Update: As of 10/16/24 an appeals court has temporarily paused eviction until 10/30/24**
The lovely one acre garden in the middle of the concrete jungle has just days left until it is evicted from its home of 33 years. The city is planning to raze it to the ground to create 123 units of affordable housing for seniors. Garden officials, whose supporters include actor Robert de Niro, are pushing Mayor Eric Adams to consider two alternative locations to build on. This fight has been ongoing for 12 years. City Council Member Christopher Marte has been working with garden officials to choose alternative sites, but the city served the garden an official eviction notice on October 2, 2024.
About Elizabeth Street Garden:
Back in 1991, Allan Reiver who owned a nearby antique shop began leasing the land from the city for $4,000 a month and started the garden project. He planted trees, a lawn, gardening beds and filled the area with stone sculptures and architectural remnants from his gallery. The resulting luscious garden lies on 20,000 square feet of coveted Manhattan green space. The volunteer-run sculpture garden hosts free events such as yoga classes, poetry readings and outdoor movie screenings. No wonder it entertains over 200,000 annual visitors.
Over one million petition signatures have been sent to the Adams administration to reconsider developing over the beautiful garden. Despite the petitions, the city is continuing with its housing plan. Having stumbled upon the garden for the first time this past summer I can tell you that it is literally a breath of fresh air in the city. It is a peaceful and welcoming gem in the midst of the concrete jungle. Walking through the gates feels like stepping back into a more simple time. Whether you sit among the greenery for 5 minutes or a few hours I urge you to go visit this modern Victorian garden if you are in the New York City area, You will not regret it and maybe you can add your signature to the petition because it will be a shame to loose this respite from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Elizabeth Street Garden Hours:
Located on Elizabeth Street between Prince and Spring Streets, the garden is open year-round by volunteers, weather permitting.
April- October:
- Weekdays: 11 AM – 7 PM
- Weekends: 10 AM – 7 PM
November-March:
- Weekdays: 11 AM – Sunset
- Weekends: 10 AM – Sunset