Celebrities Rally to Save Urban Garden

In a controversial move, New York City officials are advancing plans to convert the Elizabeth Street Garden, a cherished green space in NoLIta, into an affordable housing complex aimed at older residents. The proposal includes the construction of 123 apartments, a decision that has sparked significant backlash from local advocates and notable figures. Three prominent celebrities, including actress and poet Smith and actor De Niro, have publicly opposed the city’s initiative. They have penned letters to Mayor Eric Adams, urging him to reconsider the eviction of the nonprofit group that has maintained the garden since the 1990s. Smith described the garden as “an entirely unique public sanctuary,” while De Niro emphasized the cultural significance of the space, arguing that its removal would erase a vital part of the city’s heritage. The letters from these celebrities are part of a broader campaign to preserve the garden, which has become a beloved community asset over the years. Advocates argue that the green space provides essential recreational opportunities and contributes to the neighborhood's character. Despite the outcry, city officials remain committed to their housing project, asserting that the need for affordable housing for seniors outweighs the garden's historical and cultural value. As the debate continues, the future of the Elizabeth Street Garden hangs in the balance, reflecting the ongoing struggle between urban development and community preservation.