NYC's Beloved Elizabeth Street Garden Gets 14-Day Eviction Notice, Housing Project Looms

NYC's Beloved Elizabeth Street Garden Faces Demolishment

The Elizabeth Street Garden in Nolita, a cherished green space known for its sculptures and tranquil atmosphere, has received a 14-day eviction notice. The city plans to replace the garden with a housing and retail complex, a decision met with strong opposition from residents and celebrities alike.

Robert De Niro, Martin Scorsese, and Patti Smith are among the high-profile figures who have publicly pleaded with Mayor Eric Adams to reconsider the project, citing the garden's importance to the community.

The garden's supporters argue that the 123 units of affordable housing for seniors could have been built elsewhere, highlighting the unique value of this green space. They emphasize its role as a haven for local seniors, a learning extension for PS 130 students, and a community gathering spot for free programs.

The city, however, maintains that the Haven Green project will include a green space of its own while addressing the pressing need for affordable housing. The project includes 11,200 square feet of office space and retail space, with Habitat for Humanity serving as an anchor tenant.

The garden's leadership has vowed to continue fighting the eviction, hoping to find a solution that preserves the green space while also addressing the city's housing needs. The fate of this iconic garden remains uncertain as the countdown to demolition begins.