Neighborhood Commons | Design Trust

Neighborhood Commons
New York City | 2021 - 2022
Design Trust for Public Space

Fellowship | Alexandra Gonzalez

Neighborhood Commons: Plazas, Sidewalks & Beyond is a collaborative initiative by the Design Trust for Public Space and the New York City Department of Small Business Services (SBS) that explores new opportunities to strengthen the governance and programming of public spaces.

The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the essential role that small businesses play in the vibrancy and resilience of our neighborhoods. As commercial corridors and main streets faced unprecedented challenges, Neighborhood Commons emerged as a timely effort to equip small businesses and place-based organizations with the tools and strategies needed to recover — and to thrive as community anchors within our public realm.

The project included a comprehensive research process, including a citywide policy review on public space use and management, as well as engagement with Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) and other place-based organizations across 12 neighborhoods.

Neighborhood Commons

The initiative culminated in two pilot activations led by our Principal, Alexa Gonzalez. Watkins Plaza in Brownsville, Brooklyn, and What's up Jamaica! A photo exhibition in Jamaica, Queens, in June 2022, in partnership with local stakeholders.

WATKINS PLAZA | HivePS x CaribBeing

Brownsville, BK | 2022

The first Neighborhood Commons activation took place in Brownsville, Brooklyn, in partnership with Brownsville Community Justice Center. The event featured local vendors at Caribbeing House, celebrating neighborhood entrepreneurship and culture.

A powerful new mural by Artist CJ offered the community a hopeful reflection of themselves, while incorporating a memorial space honoring victims of gun violence in the area. Adding to the vibrant atmosphere, tape art by Kuki brought bursts of color and playful designs to the roadbed — temporarily transforming the space into a welcoming and expressive public environment.

WHAT'S UP JAMAICA! | HivePS

Jamaica, Queens | 2022

What’s up, Jamaica! An Exhibition Celebrating the Work of Photojournalist Nat Valentine is part of Design Trust for Public Space’s Neighborhood Commons Initiative, highlighting how art and commerce can support each other in public spaces. Working in partnership with Cultural Collaborative Jamaica, 165th Street Mall, and King Manor Museum, “What’s up, Jamaica!” presents a look back at photojournalist Nat Valentine’s captivating work, showcasing events and people around the neighborhood.

Street Banners along 165th Street Mall display Mr. Valentine’s images, which capture local events and community members.

Over 15+ local vendors activated 165th Street Mall in Jamaica to celebrate the Exhibition Launch. Family fun included music, arts and crafts, games, food and dancing!