The Shape of the Square Is Changing Again

Got a gripe about the neighborhood that maybe, just maybe, the city can try to fix?

Learn how to report your complaints to 311 here.

Union Square’s BlueWater Grill may be gone as of next fall because the landlord, the same guy who priced Union Square Cafe out of the neighborhood, is at it again.

Are you aware of the proposed MTA/DOT “L” train closure plans?

The MTA/DOT plans include a vehicular ban on 14^th Street (between 3^rd Ave & 9^th Ave) for 16-21 hours a day:

 The ban will seriously impede the daily activities of thousands of 14^th St. residents and businesses and will divert cars and trucks to residential side streets – with a 50% projected increase in traffic

The increase will be felt by the West Village, Village, East Village, Chelsea and the Flatiron Districts.

The proposed plans also includes a radical re-design of 13th Street with a two-way Bikeway:

MTA/DOT projects 2,000 – 5,000 cyclists DAILY on 13^th Street 

The bikeway, coupled with a 50% increase in traffic, will seriously impede residential, educational, and emergency services on the street placing pedestrians and bicyclists at risk

The 14th Street Coalition is a growing group of residents and business that was formed in response to the MTA/DOT plans.

We ask the MTA/DOT to balance residential and transportation needs in a more equal way. They MUST consider the impact that will be felt on the quality of life concerns including air pollution, noise, congested streets and increased risks to pedestrians and bicyclists. 

We understand that the Canarsie Tunnel must be repaired.  We seek a temporary solution that is EQUALLY fair to residents, businesses and commuters. 

It’s Time to Take Action – Sign our petition (go to www.change.org and browse: 14^th Street Coalition), join the 14^th Street Coalition on Facebook for links to sample letters to send to our elected officials,

Email us at  14thstcoalition@gmail.com for more information.

Here’s the news: “The New York City Water Board voted on Friday morning to approve a 14.5 percent increase for water and sewer rates, the largest increase since 1992. When the new rate is in place on July 1, according to the city’s Independent Budget Office, water rates will have risen a cumulative 77 percent since 2001, and double-digit increases are expected to keep coming for at least a few more years.”

This is one of those uncontrollable costs that bedevil the co-op’s budget every year. The only thing we can do about it: use less water. We’ve already taken steps to examine our infrastructure and make sure we have discovered any sources of waste and leaks. Other than that, it’s all about less consumption.

A fascinating look at Union Square here.

Enjoy beloved films under the stars at these free outdoor screenings presented by Alamo Drafthouse on four select Thursdays in Union Square Park. Arrive early to enjoy fun pre-show activities starting at 7 p.m., and bring your own blanket to secure a cozy spot before the movies begin at 8 p.m. Limited seating will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.

2025 Schedule:

• July 24: The Muppets Take Manhattan

• July 31: Men in Black

• August 7: The Taking of Pelham One Two Three

• August 14: 13 Going on 30