Chelsea Dowell Chelsea Dowell

The power couple behind a powerfully simple communal event

We sat down with Maryam and Andy, the couple behind The Longest Table, a joyous community potluck that draws 1,000 people to their Chelsea block. Learn more about their simple-yet-powerful approach to building community in public space.

Read More
Chelsea Dowell Chelsea Dowell

Accessible public space: a right and a benefit to all

New York City’s need for well-managed, people-centered public space creates major barriers to independence for people with disabilities. Open Plans and CIDNY work together to build a future public realm that accommodates people of all abilities.

Read More
Clarence Eckerson Clarence Eckerson

Rolling the tape on recent Public Space Award winners

Watch these behind-the-scenes videos of public space transformations in New York City by Clarence Eckerson, Jr. of Streetfilms. Eckerson has filmed many of the recent winners of Open Plans’ Public Space Awards.

Read More
Chelsea Dowell Chelsea Dowell

This artist brings life & love to NYC streets

New York-based artist Timur’s Viral Love art project began as a pandemic response to career change and isolation. It became an enriching experience that fostered new connection, opportunities, and liberation in public space.

Read More