Greetings! It has been a year and a half since the last PSBA update. Apologies for the lack of communication.

Over our 25-plus years as residents here, Valerie and I have worked with neighbors to improve GAP through the Grand Army Plaza Coalition, the Plaza Street Block Association, and the Friends of the Berms clean-up and gardening crew.

After the recent capital investment in the Arch, berm fencing and plantings (although there is more to do there), GAP has come a long way. We look forward to learning what a major DOT capital project will mean for more improvements across the plaza: benches, lighting, new sidewalks. In the meantime, we can take steps now to enhance the quality of life around Grand Army Plaza, starting with trash and the pedestrian experience. We are excited that the Alliance has offered us an opportunity to act now.

New trash bins for the plaza

We are partnering with the Prospect Park Alliance (PPA) to install attractive, fixed, high-quality trash bins throughout GAP. You can learn more here.

We all know the limitations of the existing barrel cans and the inadequacy of bin coverage around Grand Army Plaza and the Fountain. After a PPA review, only 5 of the existing bins met their standards. This project will bring 23 new bins across the entire plaza, from Plaza Street West to East, through the fountain and arch, meeting the plaza’s real needs. Beyond a consistency of design, these cans feature:

• A narrow top to limit rain and illegal dumping

• A rodent-resistant construction that is easier for Sanitation to clear

• Fixed locations to prevent unauthorized movement and tipping

The initial campaign targeted $40,000 to cover the cost of the bins and installation. Due to the trade war with Canada, the cost has increased, and the funds required are now close to $48,000. We have pledged $25,000 to this project. Will you consider helping us get this across the finish line?

PPA’s Will Suarez can also assist with gifts made via check or stock/ACH, all 100% tax deductible. He can be reached at wsuarez@prospectpark.org. A gift of any amount will help make a difference in Grand Army Plaza. Please spread the word with neighbors in your buildings, with friends, dog owners and other admirers of GAP.

Enhancing our neighborhood and Grand Army Plaza is good for our community. Thank you for your consideration. For those who observe, please have a meaningful holiday.

How you can help PSBA and Grand Army Plaza

I am often asked what folks can do to help. I welcome help in all forms. Here are a few suggestions.

Spread the word. I would like to build up our distribution list again. If you live in a large building on Plaza Street East or West, St. John’s, Butler and nearby, please share this note with your building list or building link.

Focus where your interest lies. We advocate for GAP across multiple police precincts, numerous elected officials, community boards and neighborhood organizations. There are also always opportunities to get your hands dirty and help clean up. If you have a particular interest, or relationships you want to use on the plaza’s behalf, let me know.

Join a few lists. These groups are good at communicating what is going on in the neighborhood: Park Slope Civic Council, PHNDC, Community Board 8, Council Member Crystal Hudson’s mailing list, Council District 39 and the Prospect Park Alliance.