About Us
Preserving historic Gramercy Park and the quality of life of the surrounding community
What the Block Association does in the community
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Clean Streets
Our professional Clean Team sweeps sidewalks and curbs, removes litter and graffiti, clears drains and shovels snow. Seasonal repairs and repainting keep street fixtures and tree-garden fences in good order.
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Historic Preservation
We protect Gramercy’s architecture, streetscape and residential character through preservation advocacy, construction monitoring and work with neighbors, public officials and developers.
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Trees & Horticulture
We care for the neighborhood’s City-owned street trees and the gardens beneath them, with individual care plans prepared with Bartlett Tree Experts.
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Public Safety & Advocacy
We bring neighbors’ concerns to police, City agencies and elected officials, pursuing solutions to safety, noise, construction and street-use issues.
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Neighbors Helping Neighbors
Through local partnerships and neighbors’ generosity, we provide meals, clothing, school supplies and practical essentials for people in need.
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Communications
We connect neighbors, institutions and public officials, follow through on community concerns, and share timely notices, local history and neighborhood stories through our newsletters.
Built by neighbors.
Arlene Harrison and neighbors from every building around the Park established the Block Association in March 1994. After her son was attacked outside their home the previous autumn, Arlene brought the community together to make the neighborhood safer.
Stronger ties with the local precinct, improved street lighting and an emergency police radio network were among the first efforts. Those relationships grew into the six core areas of work that continue today.
Rooted in the neighborhood.
Founder and President Arlene Harrison has made Gramercy Park home to three generations of her family. Her work for the Block Association grows from that personal connection and from relationships built over more than three decades.
She is preparing the organization’s next generation of leaders to continue its programs and relationships.
Keep the work going.
The Block Association is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Contributions support the continuing work of caring for our streets, advocating for the neighborhood and helping people through local partnerships.