CELEBRATING 75 YEARS

Reopening the United Nations North Lawn and Gardens

Background

The UN Headquarters, opened in 1951, includes the North Lawn and Gardens, a nine-acre open space designed as a civic square, reflecting architect Oscar Niemeyer’s vision of public purpose. This area, featuring a sculpture park and formal gardens, has served as an “oasis” for the community for decades. Public access has been restricted since the September 11 attacks for security reasons, even following an extensive 2015 renovation to enhance security in the site. 

Project Rationale

Manhattan Community Board 6 ranks in the bottom 10% of community boards citywide in terms of access to parks and open space. The UN North Lawn and Gardens have historically been a vital part of the neighborhood’s social fabric. However, there is currently minimal public access via a weekly, paid garden tour with airport-style security. This diminishes the UN's return on investment in upkeep and represents a missed opportunity for community engagement and fostering understanding of the UN’s mission. With the UN Headquarters celebrating its 75th anniversary in 2026, we have an opportunity to restore public access to this iconic space.

Objectives

  1. Increase awareness and understanding of the UN’s mission and strengthen ties between the UN and the public.

  2. Enhance quality of life for local communities and commuters by increasing access to green space.

  3. Maximize the UN’s investment in the gardens through responsible increased utilization.

  4. Maintain best-in-class security protocols to ensure the safety of UN staff and visitors.

Proposal

  • Short Term: Allow public access to the North Lawn and Gardens during set hours, via existing security protocols. Partner with community groups and form a “Friends of the UN Garden” organization to raise awareness and foster stakeholder involvement.

  • Longer Range: Implement modest changes to access protocols, allowing direct access to the North Lawn from the 47th Street entrance while maintaining security protocols to reach other parts of the UN headquarters. Invest in recreational facilities (benches, picnic tables) and consider a small kiosk for revenue and amenities such as public bathrooms.