Open Plans Secures $100K Grant for Clarkson Street Public Space Revitalization

In the heart of Manhattan, a vibrant discussion unfolded at the Traffic & Transportation Committee Meeting on July 29, 2025, as community leaders and educators gathered to explore innovative solutions for local schools. The meeting, held at City Hall, was marked by a palpable sense of collaboration and hope as stakeholders focused on enhancing public spaces for students.

Sabina Sethi Unni, a community planner from Open Plans, took center stage to present preliminary plans for a project funded by a $100,000 grant aimed at improving Clarkson Street. This initiative, part of the Open Streets for Schools program, seeks to transform the street into a safer and more accessible area for students from City Avenue School and M721, a District 75 school that serves children with developmental disabilities. Unni emphasized the importance of community input, inviting local residents and students to share their visions for the space.

The Open Streets initiative has already proven transformative for the schools, providing essential outdoor play areas that are otherwise lacking due to construction and limited facilities. Maria Bermudez, a representative from City Avenue School, echoed this sentiment, highlighting how the program has fostered a sense of community and collaboration among students. She noted the challenges faced by students with disabilities and the need for inclusive spaces that cater to all.

As the meeting progressed, committee members raised questions about the involvement of local businesses and the timeline for the project. Unni reassured attendees that the Hudson Square Business Improvement District (BID) is engaged in the process, helping to facilitate outreach and gather feedback from the community. The timeline for the project is ambitious, with plans to synthesize community input by late October and present designs in the spring of 2026.

The meeting underscored the importance of community engagement in urban planning, with participants discussing various methods to involve students in the design process. Activities such as workshops and surveys have already begun, allowing students to express their ideas through creative means, including drawing and interactive exercises.

As the session drew to a close, the excitement in the room was palpable. The collaborative spirit among educators, planners, and community members signaled a promising future for Clarkson Street—a space that aims to not only serve the immediate needs of students but also foster a sense of belonging and community pride. The journey ahead is filled with potential, as stakeholders work together to create a vibrant public space that reflects the voices of those it serves.