Debate Over Permanent Gates at Washington Square Park

There’s a growing dispute over the idea of installing permanent gates at the historic Washington Square Park in New York City, balancing safety concerns against the park’s long-held reputation for openness and freedom.

This proposal gained traction after safety issues became apparent during the COVID-19 pandemic, when the park saw a rise in late-night gatherings, some of which led to drug-related incidents and overdoses.

Residents have expressed frustration, suggesting that a more permanent solution, like gates, is necessary to enforce the current curfew. They argue that the existing barricades put up by the NYPD are too easily moved aside.

“This park is locked, but not really locked well,” noted George Varonakis, a local who helped revamp the park two decades ago. “It’s challenging for anyone, including the Parks Department or the police, to secure these entrances properly.”

Varonakis mentioned that this discussion isn’t new; similar concerns surfaced during the park’s redesign years ago. He also believes that the park’s entrances should harmonize visually with the rest of the space.

“Every entrance shapes the park experience,” he asserted. “Seeing unattractive chains and police barricades doesn’t reflect what New York should represent.”

If approval is given for the gates, it wouldn’t be a first for the park, which had permanent fencing for many years starting in the 1820s.

“Now is the moment to switch out that unsightly police barricade for a gate that embodies the park’s rich history, which has seen fencing for over 50 years,” Varonakis added.

However, not everyone is on board with this potential change. Many New Yorkers are resistant to the notion of officially fencing a space that has long represented protest and public expression.

“I think this is a bad move,” remarked Marilyn Jane, a Greenwich Village artist. “It makes everything seem so closed off. I appreciate the atmosphere and the vibrancy. I may not be entirely objective, but I love the park just as it is.”

Photographer Kat Lazarus, 53, echoed this sentiment, stating that parks shouldn’t be closed at night. “This is where young people gather. It’s a space for community,” she noted.

Chip, a 28-year-old barista, added, “People love parks. They should invite people in, not keep them out.”

Meanwhile, John Kruse, a 70-year-old university professor, shared his sense of safety, mentioning he’s walked through the park many times at night. “There seems to be a growing trend towards authoritarian approaches that feels excessive,” he remarked.

Student Zachary Foster, 19, described the park as “very peaceful,” expressing concern that a permanent gate could diminish the community vibe that makes the park special. “It risks cutting off that sense of freedom people cherish here,” he said.

The New York City Parks Department responded to inquiries by indicating that there isn’t a formal plan for the gate yet. However, if the proposal gains the necessary approval, they aim to collaborate with the Washington Square Park Conservancy to explore installation options.

The Community Board’s Parks and Waterfront Committee decided recently to start drafting a resolution that would urge the Park Service to consider both traditional and innovative closure methods, with input from the Parks Conservancy.