Saturday, January 06, 2007

Madison Square Park


I also happen on Madison Square Park.
Historic Madison Square Park is the vibrant center of Manhattan's Flatiron District offering flourishing gardens, lush lawns and cultural programs for all ages. Located on 6.2 acres between 23rd and 26th streets and Fifth and Madison avenues, the park has become an oasis for those who live and work nearby.
Until very recently, historic Madison Square Park was neglected and crime-ridden. People walked around it instead of going inside. In June 2001, after a two-year capital restoration project, Madison Square Park was rededicated. In the spring of 2002, a restored playground reopened to the delight of many children in the neighborhood.
In June 2004, the Conservancy introduced its new "green" food Kiosk, Shake Shack, by renowned architect James Wines of SITE Environmental Design. The innovative design of the ivy-covered, zinc-clad structure echoes the angles of the Flatiron building. Operated by Danny Meyer's Union Square Hospitality Group, the food kiosk's proceeds benefit Conservancy programs. The Shack has already transformed the south end of the park into a popular dining hub in keeping with Conservancy's mission of continually expanding opportunities for visitors to the park.
In addition to tending the park's lawns and gardens, the Conservancy provides high-quality free cultural programs. Mad. Sq. Kids offers family programs on the park's Oval Lawn on Tuesday and Thursday mornings throughout the summer. Mad. Sq. Music is our summer evening concert series. Madison Square Park has also earned a reputation as a presenter of contemporary art. Mad. Sq. Reads is our summer reading series.

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