In Lower Manhattan, a small garden named Elizabeth Street Garden has become the center of a heated legal battle. Lawsuits and counter-lawsuits have been filed over whether to keep this green space or replace it with affordable housing. The story has seen many twists: one day the garden is safe, the next day development seems certain.
To understand the fuss, I visited the garden on a sunny spring Saturday. The garden was crowded with people and dogs enjoying the space. Officials briefly questioned my photo shoot but allowed it after I explained my press purpose and requested a permit.
The garden is charming but small. Nearby Sara D. Roosevelt Park offers much more green space and facilities. The garden was created in 1991 by Allan Reiver, who ran the adjacent Elizabeth Street Gallery. The city’s Housing Authority took control of the land in 2012, planning to build housing there. After years of legal fights, the New York Court of Appeals ruled in 2024 to permit the development.
Many famous New Yorkers, including Robert De Niro, Martin Scorsese, and Patti Smith, have supported efforts to save the garden. A judge has temporarily blocked eviction until at least October 2024, but the garden’s future remains uncertain in court.
The garden features sculptures from Allan Reiver’s collection, planted perennials, and a copper gazebo designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, the famed landscape architect behind Central Park. Community members learned in 2013 about the city’s plans to replace the garden with low-income senior housing. They organized protests and worked with Reiver to keep the garden open to the public. Advocates have suggested other city-owned sites nearby for housing instead.
Recently, Mayor Eric Adams appointed Deputy Mayor Randy Mastro to review the case. Reports suggest the city may reconsider the housing project.
As someone who values green spaces but also sees the urgent need for housing for vulnerable seniors and homeless people, I believe the land should be used for housing. Many affordable housing proposals in New York face rejection. It’s time to act with compassion and provide homes for those in need.
