‘We Outside': NYC allocates $30M to transform vacant lots into green spaces
Mayor Adams also launched 'We Outside Summer,' a new initiative featuring events, investments, and programs across the five boroughs to ensure a safe, enjoyable summer for New Yorkers.
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'We know New Yorkers across the five boroughs are looking for more places to enjoy the warmer weather with friends and loved ones,' said Mayor Adams. 'Today, we're announcing a new effort to turn vacant, abandoned lots into parks — bringing more green spaces to neighborhoods across New York City that don't currently have access to them. This initiative builds on our administration's commitment to put a park within walking distance of a park because access to parks is critical, and as summer arrives, we're working hard to deliver green spaces to the areas most in need across the five boroughs.'
The NYC Parks Department submitted Uniform Land Use Review Procedure applications for 44 sites in Brooklyn and Queens. Officials said some neighborhood sites include East New York, Jackson Heights, and East Elmhurst.
According to NYC.gov, ULURP is New York City's approval process for changes to how land is used, as required by the City Charter.
Not all sites will be converted into parkland. Officials said additional sites will be announced in the coming months.
The Adams administration says it has committed $80 million to expanding green spaces in the city since taking office.
For more information on Mayor Adams' 'We Outside Summer,' click here.
Matthew Euzarraga is a multimedia journalist from El Paso, Texas. He has covered local news and LGBTQIA topics in the New York City Metro area since 2021. He joined the PIX11 Digital team in 2023. You can see more of his work here.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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