Celebrities Rally to Save Elizabeth Street Garden from Demolition

In a passionate plea to preserve the Elizabeth Street Garden, renowned New York City figures Robert De Niro, Martin Scorsese, and Patti Smith have voiced their concerns over plans to demolish the beloved green space for affordable senior housing. Smith, in a letter dated August 14, described the garden as an "oasis of greenspace" and a "work of art," urging city officials to protect public art and green spaces from unchecked development. The celebrities' appeals come just weeks before the anticipated demolition date of September 10. Both De Niro and Scorsese, who grew up in Little Italy, expressed their deep connection to the neighborhood and the importance of maintaining its character. Scorsese lamented the lack of greenery in the area during his youth, emphasizing the need for a refreshing oasis like the Elizabeth Street Garden. De Niro echoed this sentiment, advocating for affordable housing while also stressing the significance of preserving the neighborhood's unique identity. Patti Smith, wielding her Key to New York City, called on Mayor Eric Adams to grant the garden the right to remain. She highlighted the ongoing struggle to balance the need for affordable housing with the preservation of cherished community spaces. In response, a spokesperson for the Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) acknowledged the challenges of developing affordable housing in economically vibrant neighborhoods but reaffirmed the administration's commitment to addressing the city's housing crisis. Originally a schoolhouse site over a century ago, the Elizabeth Street Garden has served as a peaceful retreat since its transformation into a sculpture garden in 1990, offering a rare escape from the urban hustle.