Advocating for Community Stewardship of Green Spaces Bordering Bike Lanes

After hearing reports that a small vegetable garden planted by a Chelsea resident in a Ninth Avenue bike lane median was removed by a landscaper commissioned by the New York City Parks Department, I and my staff took immediate action to ensure that such plantings not be removed again.  We have had continued dialogue and correspondence with the Parks Department seeking written affirmation of the constituent’s right to plant in that public space.  I am also in the process of organizing a meeting to discuss how the small but much-needed plots of green space created by protected bike lanes can be planted and maintained by community members across the city.  Please see the Chelsea Now story on the issue here.