Programming

Programming

We propose comprehensive programming of Cooper Square and Triangle to engage the community, activate the space, and respond to the needs of the neighborhood. Along with public engagement in the design process, ongoing dialogue addressing community needs and desires will be the driving force behind the use of the space. Cooper Trapezoid Coalition will work closely with local organizations and institutions to expand and create activities and events to bring people into the space. 

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Local schools will have the opportunity to use the area as an outdoor classroom, or a recreational area. Community centers will be able to host their classes and talks outside in the space. Collaboration with visual art organizations to make artwork part of the functional pieces in the space, such as tables and umbrellas, will bring a unique feel. Exercise facilities could hold classes on the open street. A variety of food or arts markets could take place here, promoting small businesses in the area. Performing arts organizations will have the opportunity to stage performances here for the public. 

We believe the programming of Cooper Triangle and Square should be actively inclusive and accessible. Free entry into the space, free participation in programming, and affordable prices for any purchasable foods or goods are essential to an equitable public space. The Square and Triangle are wheelchair accessible and directly adjacent to Astor Place, an accessible subway station; the programming should not interfere with the ability to easily and safely navigate the space with respect to mobility. Additionally, programming and information in the space should be available in multiple languages.

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The users of Cooper Square and Triangle will have agency over the programming through the Cooper Trapezoid Coalition, allowing the space to be responsive to the community.

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JASA

JASA, the Jewish Association Serving the Aging, is a non-profit senior center on 5th St., who provides health and social services for the seniors in the community.

GO Project

GO Project is a non-profit organization, who partners with independent schools i.e. Grace Church School to serve and help under-resourced families with public school students on the Lower East Side, Chinatown and in Brooklyn. 

FABnyc

FABnyc seeks to both preserve and expand the Lower East Side’s cultural community as a non-profit organization and through a team of artists and organizers on 4th St.

Hemispheric Institute

The Hemispheric Institute at New York University on Cooper Square assembles artists, scholars, writers, learners and activists to produce digitally archived work, publications and talks about social justice, culture and performances through a political perspective.

Public Theater

Public Theater is a non-profit theater located at Astor Place, which offers various theater programs, concerts and productions all year around across the city.

St. Marks Yoga

St. Marks Yoga hosts yoga and pilates classes at their studio on St. Marks Place with a varied selection of teachers and timetables throughout the week.

Village Voice

The Village Voice is a free digitized newspaper covering the art, culture and politics of New York City and with an office at Cooper Square.