Coalition demands increased funding for NYC parks at city council hearing

Under the bright lights of New York City’s council chambers, a chorus of voices rose in unison, advocating for the lifeblood of the city—its parks. The Finance, Parks & Recreation, and Transportation & Infrastructure FY26 Executive Budget Hearing on May 13, 2025, became a platform for passionate pleas from community leaders and advocates, all echoing a singular message: New York City’s parks are essential and must be adequately funded.

Morgan Monaco, president of the Prospect Park Alliance, opened the session with a heartfelt acknowledgment of the nearly $19 million allocated for parks in the proposed budget. However, she urged the council to push for an additional $65 million to restore nearly 800 lost positions within the parks department. “Our parks are not luxuries; they are essential community spaces,” she emphasized, highlighting their role as gathering places for joy, protest, and community connection.

Adam Ganzer, executive director of New Yorkers for Parks, echoed this sentiment, lamenting the dire state of park maintenance due to budget cuts over the past three years. He pointed out that the parks department has lost approximately 700 positions, leading to deteriorating conditions in public spaces. “This is not the city New Yorkers deserve,” he stated, calling for immediate restoration of funding to ensure parks remain safe and welcoming.

The urgency of the situation was palpable as Heather Lubav, executive director of the City Parks Foundation, described the tangible impacts of budget cuts on community programs. She noted that the lack of funding has resulted in shuttered restrooms and delayed event permits, directly affecting thousands of children and seniors, particularly in underserved neighborhoods. “Increased funding for parks is not optional,” she asserted, emphasizing the need for consistent support to meet the surging demands of the community.

As the hearing progressed, the focus shifted to innovative funding solutions. John Cirico from the Center for an Urban Future proposed new revenue streams, such as a ticket surcharge on events held in parkland, which could generate millions for park maintenance. “Money made in parks must stay in parks,” he urged, advocating for a dedicated parks maintenance fund to ensure sustainable funding.

The emotional weight of the discussions was underscored by personal stories from community members. Gabby Perez from The Bronx is Blooming shared her experiences caring for parks in the Bronx, emphasizing the vital role these spaces play in community life. “These parks are where life happens,” she said, calling for increased funding to support their upkeep.

As the hearing drew to a close, the collective call for action was clear: New York City’s parks need robust and consistent funding to thrive. The voices of advocates, community leaders, and everyday New Yorkers resonated with a shared vision of equitable and resilient green spaces, underscoring the critical importance of parks in the fabric of city life. The future of these cherished spaces hangs in the balance, awaiting the council's decision on the budget that will shape their fate.