Introducing the Coolest Block in the Lower East Side: A Community Contest for Greener Streets
The Lower East Side Ecology Center (LES Ecology Center) is thrilled to launch The Coolest Block in the Lower East Side, an exciting new initiative designed to encourage community stewardship of street trees in the East Village, Lower East Side, and Chinatown neighborhoods.
Officially kicking off in February 2025, this community-driven contest fosters environmental awareness, local engagement, and a healthy dose of competition, bringing together neighbors, schools, and organizations to transform their blocks into vibrant, green spaces.
How It Works
Residents, community groups, block associations, schools, and local organizations are invited to compete for the title of the Coolest Block in the Lower East Side. Participants will focus on key street tree care activities such as soil aeration, mulching, watering, and general cleanup, all while showcasing creativity and community spirit.
Eligibility
Must live in:
- East Village
- Lower East Side
- Chinatown
Residents:
- Block Associations
- Neighborhood or Faith-based organizations
- Community Gardens
- Friends of groups
- Ad-hoc groups
Or
Youth:
- Green/Sustainability Team
- After-school clubs
- Teen programs
- Youth-led groups
- School Classes
Awards will be given in three categories:
- Biggest Glow-Up – For the most improved block
- Pollinator Friendly – For blocks incorporating pollinator-friendly plants
- Youth Stewarded – For blocks with significant youth participation
Contest Highlights
- Workshops & Resources: Participants will have access to monthly street tree care workshops, a tool lending library, and technical assistance from LES Ecology Center staff.
- Judging Criteria: Blocks will be evaluated based on soil management, creativity, and community engagement.
- Prizes: Prizes to be announced soon.
Timeline & Key Events
February-March 2025:
- Town Hall Kick-Off Social Event – Learn about the contest, ask questions, and connect with other participants.
- Registration Opens – Sign up to compete!
- Information Sessions & Street Tree Care Workshops – Get tips and hands-on training.
April 2025:
- Final Information Sessions & Workshops
- Registration Closes
May-June 2025:
- Block Walks – One-on-one chats and assistance from LES Ecology Center staff.
- Outreach Events
- Judging for the ‘Youth Stewarded’ category
July-August 2025:
- Block Walks – Continued support from LES Ecology Center staff.
- Judging for the Biggest Glow-Up and Pollinator Friendly
Why This Matters
The contest addresses a critical need for increasing urban tree canopy in the Lower East Side. Recent data highlights a dramatic reduction in tree coverage due to city projects, leaving the neighborhood with just 21% urban tree canopy—significantly below the citywide average of 44%. By promoting community stewardship, this initiative aims to restore and expand green spaces in our neighborhood.
How to Get Involved
Join us on Thursday, February 27, for the Coolest Block in the Lower East Side Town Hall Kick-off Event, where community members, local leaders, and sustainability advocates will come together to launch the Coolest Block in the Lower East Side initiative. This event will be an opportunity to learn about upcoming projects, share ideas, and connect with experts committed to making the neighborhood more livable and environmentally sustainable. Sign up here.
If you’re interested or have questions, be sure to fill out the interest form! Stay updated by following LES Ecology Center on social media @lesecologyctr.
Let’s make the Lower East Side the coolest—and greenest—neighborhood in NYC!