Welcome to the official website of the Crosby Street Association.
We’re a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to preserving and enhancing the unique character of Crosby Street, nestled in the heart of Manhattan's vibrant SoHo neighborhood.
Our Story
Crosby Street boasts a rich and storied history dating back to the early 19th century. Initially named after General John Schuyler Crosby, it served as a bustling commercial hub in the mid-1800s, bustling with warehouses, factories, and retail stores. Horse-drawn carriages and later automobiles traversed its cobblestone lanes, making it a crucial transportation artery.
As the 20th century dawned, Crosby Street's industrial landscape evolved. Factories and warehouses gave way to a thriving artistic community, with SoHo becoming renowned for its lofts and artist communities. Crosby Street became a hub for the emerging art scene, drawing in painters, sculptors, and other creatives seeking affordable living spaces and studios.
The street played a pivotal role in the transformation of SoHo into the artistic enclave it is today, with numerous art studios, galleries, and boutiques opening along its historic cobblestone lanes. SoHo's iconic cast-iron architecture, including many buildings on Crosby Street, provided a unique backdrop for artistic expression and creative endeavors.
Our Mission
Recognizing the importance of preserving Crosby Street's unique character while addressing the challenges of its changing landscape, the Crosby Street Association was founded in 2022. Comprising dedicated community members, business owners, and residents, our mission is threefold:
Preservation: We aim to maintain the historic charm of Crosby Street, ensuring its legacy endures.
Support: We are committed to supporting local businesses, helping them thrive in our community.
Cleanliness & Safety: We strive to promote a clean and safe environment for everyone who calls Crosby Street home.
Tree Preservation and Planting: In collaboration with NYC Parks, we are dedicated to preserving existing trees on Crosby Street and strategically planting new trees in permissible areas along the street. This initiative contributes to a greener, healthier environment while enhancing the natural beauty of our neighborhood.
Our Achievements
In response to the challenges faced by Crosby Street, particularly its exclusion from the SOHO B.I.D, the Crosby Street Association has been proactive in advocating for positive changes in our community. We are proud to highlight some of our significant achievements:
Cobblestone Restoration: We successfully lobbied the Department of Transportation (DOT) to initiate the restoration of cobblestones along Crosby Street, specifically from Prince to Broome. This effort not only preserves the historic character of our street but also enhances its appeal.
Clean Team Initiative: Through our collaboration with the Soho Broadway Initiative (SBI), we have implemented a Clean Team dedicated to maintaining the cleanliness of Crosby Street. Since its launch on January 1, 2023, this initiative has visibly improved the cleanliness and overall environment of our community.
Community Empowerment: Our partnership with the Association of Community Employment Programs (ACE) further strengthens our commitment to community empowerment. By providing job training and work experience to New Yorkers who have faced challenges like homelessness, incarceration, and addiction, we are not only giving back to our neighborhood but also helping individuals achieve economic independence.
Tree Planting: We have already successfully planted a new tree on Crosby Street between Broome and Spring streets and have plans for additional trees on the corner of Spring and Crosby.
While we have achieved significant milestones, our work is ongoing. We continue to advocate for the restoration of cobblestones from Broome to Howard, and your support and involvement are vital in driving positive change for Crosby Street and the surrounding community.
Thank you for being a part of our mission to preserve and enhance the unique character of our beloved Crosby Street. Together, we are shaping a brighter future for our historic neighborhood.
Join Us
Crosby Street's history is a testament to the dynamic nature of Manhattan's neighborhoods. From its industrial roots to its artistic renaissance, Crosby Street has witnessed the changing face of the city. The Crosby Street Association remains committed to upholding the street's legacy while embracing the opportunities and challenges of the future.
This year, our goal is to create greater awareness of the Association and expand community participation. Your support and involvement will allow us to focus on additional street beautification objectives, ensuring Crosby Street thrives for generations to come.
We appreciate any help you can provide as we work together with our neighbors to enhance and preserve the unique character of Crosby Street. Join us in shaping the future of this historic corridor in SoHo.
Explore the Film: "Crosby Street"
We invite you to watch the film "Crosby Street" created by the SoHo Memory Project. This captivating documentary offers a unique glimpse into the history and transformation of our very own Crosby Street. Discover the stories, the art, and the vibrant community that have shaped our neighborhood over the years.
