Hamilton Heights has a brand new public plaza–and it opened with just enough weeks left of summer to enjoy it: Johnny Hartman Plaza on Hamilton Place between W 143rd and W 144th Streets.
Part of the New York City Department of Transportation's Plaza Program–seeking to ensure quality open spaces within a 10-minute walk for everyone–an entire block bordering Johnny Hartman Square has been transformed into a pedestrian oasis complete with colorful metal tables and chairs, flower-filled planters and huge umbrellas offering pockets of shade.
The plaza's official partner, the youth organization Brotherhood Sister Sol–its front door opens onto the space–will be responsible for everything from day-to-day maintenance to programming, including the weekly Hamilton Heights Green Youth Market.
In the meantime, anyone can apply to hold an event in the plaza (via www.nyc.gov/sapo) or simply grab a chair and do some people watching–one of the favorite activities of local survey respondents during the lead-up to the plaza's construction.
