Madison Square Park

The Daily Plant : Thursday, June 19, 2003

MADISON SQUARE PARK TRUMPETS NEW CONSERVANCY

On the sunny Monday morning of June 16, trumpeter Steven Bernstein noted new beginnings for Madison Square Park. A new conservancy, a new summer concert series and new summer arts programs are enhancing the 6.2-acre green gem nestled among the tall facades of the Flatiron District. On June 16, Parks & Recreation Commissioner Adrian Benepe joined Co-Founder and Executive Director of Madison Square Park Conservancy Debbie Landau and Co-Founder and restaurateur Danny Meyer to announce the formation of The Madison Square Park Conservancy, New York City's newest not-for-profit organization to support a public park.

"Public-private partnerships are vital to the success of our green spaces and I congratulate the board and their supporters for creating the Madison Square Park Conservancy," said Commissioner Benepe. "This Conservancy will help us keep Madison Square Park, one of New York City's first parks, a safe and inviting place."

The Madison Square Park Conservancy was formed to support Madison Square Park’s beautification, programs, and maintenance. Community members, elected officials, and corporations including, MetLife, NY Life, and Credit Suisse First Boston have been instrumental in the park’s transformation over the last decade.

"I am thrilled to announce the formation of the Madison Square Park Conservancy," said Debbie Landau. "Today’s ceremony marks the culmination of our efforts to restore and revitalize Madison Square Park. Thanks to support from corporations and individuals, Madison Square Park is now guaranteed a bright, lush, and financially secure future for years to come."

For the first time, Madison Square Park will offer a variety of summer tunes for all New Yorkers to enjoy. Through Madison Square Music, a free performance series on Wednesday evenings from July 9 through August 13.

On July 9, the music series kicks off with folk-rocker Dan Zanes & Friends and continues on July 16 with alt-country singer Laura Cantrell. The following three Wednesday evenings will be presented in association with Jazz Standard –Steven Bernstein's Millennial Territory Orchestra on July 23, a jazz ensemble on July 30 and virtuoso jazz guitarist Charlie Hunter on August 6. The series concludes August 13 with Broadway star and cabaret singer, Melissa Errico. Bring your family out to enjoy these free evenings of music.

This summer the Madison Square Park Conservancy will also be launching Madison Square Kids, providing performances followed by arts and crafts activities and Madison Square Art, presenting unique contemporary art.

At the end of the event, the officials unveiled Madison Square Park Conservancy’s new banner. This colorful banner now hangs on over 30 lamp-posts throughout the Flatiron District and in the park. Thanks to the efforts of Parks & Recreation Manager John Herrold and his team the park is in great shape. Across the way from the banner unveiling, scores of children happily scurried up the park’s playground equipment, excited to partake in the warm sunshine.

Written by Jocelyn Aframe

"This is the place!"

(1801-1877)