NYC is known for its skyscrapers and building-lined blocks, but if you know where to look it’s also full of gorgeous, lush greenery–a stroll through all the city’s iconic parks proves it!
Though if you’re looking to stroll past vibrant pink hibiscuses, perfectly manicured lawns, and lush hedges, look no further than East 25th Street between Avenue D & Clarendon Road–otherwise known as “The Greenest Block in Brooklyn.”
The road gets the title from Brooklyn Botanic Garden’s annual Greenest Block in Brooklyn contest.
The contest, otherwise known as Brooklyn’s friendliest competition, has been running for almost 30 years and gathers together Brooklyn residents, local officials, neighbors, and gardening enthusiasts.
East 25th Street was announced the winner last week, on Thursday, August 3rd–its fifth time of taking the esteemed title–with many gathering together to celebrate.
“We don’t take this lightly. Everyone that you see standing here played an integral role in where we are,” homeowner and 300 East 25th Street Block Association member Carol Reneau told the crowd, according to the Brooklyn Paper.
“Greening has helped us to understand the deeper connections and roles that pollinators, recycling, being a good tree steward, conservation, the temperature, air quality, and human beings have with each other. Lastly, greening has enabled us to put our differences aside and work towards a greater cause for future generations,” Reneau reportedly added.
Residents of the block truly put their green thumb to the test, such as Pauline Green, who moved to the block from St. Ann, Jamaica in 1995, and has “helped fellow residents learn the art of gardening,” as reported by the Brooklyn Paper.
Adrian Benepe, Brooklyn Botanic Garden president, said the East 25th Street block topped the 119 other competitors, which were spread throughout various parts of Brooklyn.
But beyond bragging rights, the competition is also a huge help to the environment.
According to the Brooklyn Paper, Rockaway Park, for example, entered only one block in 2021–between Conklin and Flatlands Avenues–but five trees have since been planted on the Canarsie block. And it’s definitely nice to see Mother Earth getting the treatment she deserves!
The runner ups in the contest include:
- 2nd place – Eastern Parkway between Bedford & Franklin Avenues
- 3rd place (tie) – Stuyvesant Avenue between Bainbridge & Chauncey Streets
- 3rd place (tie) – Decatur Street between Lewis & Stuyvesant Avenues
Check out the full list of winners here.