Upper Green Side

Though it was unbelievably cold, many people braved the windchill and threat of snow to come to the last day of the East 82nd Street Greenmarket a few weeks back and line up (yes, there were lines!) for fresh produce, organic bread, and local wine – a true testament to how vital the market has become. Our little market that started three years ago with only 4 farmers’ stands has now grown to 8 diverse vendors of specialty items such as local wine, grass fed beef, lavender wares and many other local & sustainable goods.

In 2009, Upper Green Side continued to support local and sustainable food by maintaining a presence at our two local markets at 82nd and 92nd Streets. We educated many people about the simple ways they can “go green.” We held electronic and paper recycling events in cooperation with the City’s Office of Recycling Outreach and Education and local community partners. We also produced and launched the first eco-map of the Upper East Side, providing the community with a practical way to find green resources in their neighborhood. Upper Green Side also stepped up its transportation advocacy during the fall. In October we did a letter writing campaign to advocate for protected bike lanes and Bus Rapid Transit on First and Second Avenue that has already produced results: Recently, a coalition of 11 elected officials have joined our effort to support bringing protected bike lanes and Bus Rapid Transit to the East Side of Manhattan!

Thanks to everyone who came out to our markets, wrote a letter in support of better transit, recycled their old electronics, shredded some paper, or even just took steps to start living greener. Thank you again for a great 2009 and here’s looking forward to an even better 2010!