Certified Closed: Piola

Warmer weather means ice cream in the park. Van Leeuwen returns to USQ as the seasonal vendor for another great summer near the subway entrance at the west side of the park near 16th St. With rotating ice cream (including vegan) flavors, expect sweet treats in the Square.

Perhaps looking east at the southeast corner of the square, where 14th St. hits Union Square East? Before the statue of Washington was moved to its present location?

Here is the corner of 13th and 5th, looking at the NE corner which now, of course, is The New School. This photo dates to the 1930s. Interesting how many changes have come to this corner over time.

The Union Square Partnership has released its latest annual survey of people’s opinions about our neighborhood’s livability in terms of cleanliness, safety, landscaping, lighting, and quality of life. It makes for an interesting read. One highlight:

“USP is committed to enhancing livability in the Union Square 14th Street district through its Clean + Safe program. According to the 2024 survey results, satisfaction for district conditions improved or remained consistent compared to 2023 results, with satisfaction for public safety increasing by 15%. This notable increase follows USP’s deployment of Public Safety Officers (PSOs) in June 2023, and survey respondents noted that their patrols have had a positive impact in Union Square Park and the playground. Despite this improvement, respondents dissatisfied with the conditions expressed ongoing safety, sanitation, and quality of life concerns around the district, including the lack of City enforcement and City services for those in need. USP is dedicated to continuing investment in the PSO program and increasing coordination with City agencies and law enforcement in response to the community’s quality of life concerns.”

Just what we needed: another beverage outlet. Meet Argo Tea, a small chain of fancy tea shops, which will soon open a new branch in the old Dean and Deluca space on University Place. (You can sample it now at another outlet in the Flatiron Building.)