New York City’s public parks have been chronically underfunded since the fiscal crisis of the 1970s. In response, the private sector has increasingly stepped in to support the maintenance and programming of parks and open spaces ranging from flagship institutions like the Central Park Conservancy to grassroots volunteer groups.
The essential role of parks became even more apparent during the COVID-19 pandemic, and yet funding to the New York City Parks department was reduced. At the same time, nonprofit park partners faced their own challenges: private donations declined just as park use skyrocketed. In response, City Parks Foundation joined with peer conservancies to form the Parks and Open Space Partners (POSP) coalition—an unprecedented citywide alliance of nonprofit stewards. Together, POSP created the NYC Green Relief & Recovery Fund, raising $8 million in private dollars to distribute as emergency grants to nonprofits and grassroots groups caring for parks across the five boroughs during the height of the pandemic.
While Central Park Conservancy operates with a robust donor base and clear mandate to maintain a premier, landmarked destination that serves both local residents and millions of tourists, the nonprofits in the POSP coalition represent a very different scale and model of public-private partnership. POSP members are deeply rooted in their neighborhoods, working in partnership with the City under a wide range of operational structures, legal agreements, and financial circumstances. Many operate without the same philanthropic reach or visibility, but all share a commitment to equitable stewardship and community-centered care of New York City’s vast and varied green spaces.
This panel will explore the complex ecosystem of nonprofit park stewards in New York City and the evolving nature of public-private partnerships. Panelists will reflect on leading through times of crisis and share insights from recent advocacy efforts, with lessons applicable to cities nationwide navigating austerity and opportunity in public space management.