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If you’ve ever wondered how Park Avenue got its name, it’s actually pretty on the nose: The iconic thoroughfare was once a huge, wide park, instead of a giant avenue with some trees and public art. 

At some point during the 1920s, though, both sides of the park were shaved down to make way for more lanes until eventually, the park went from being 56 feet wide to just 20 feet, according to Curbed. According to that same report, city officials Dan Garodnick, who is the director city planning, and Council member Keith Powers have fought to increase the size of the park again, and they might see their wishes come to fruition soon.

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The Department of Transportation (DOT) has put out a request for proposals for partners willing to help them expand the “park” element on Park Avenue again, since the train tunnel that currently sits under it needs a new roof, giving developers an opportunity to rearrange how the Avenue itself looks, per Curbed. A proposed expansion would widen the park to make it 48 feet wide, which is almost as wide as it was in its heyday.

The expansion of Park Avenue’s green space would also add safer crossings for pedestrians and make the area of the city people-first, as opposed to car-first, as so many streets across the city and country became in the 20th century.

“We’re putting the ‘park’ back in Park Avenue! This project will transform this iconic stretch of Manhattan’s Park Avenue by adding greenery and making important safety improvements. The Adams administration continues to reimagine public space in record ways,” DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez said in a press conference. “This street redesign is a key piece of a new vision for East Midtown, and we look forward to identifying a partner to make this vision a reality.”

The bid asked for proposals of up to $1.5 million that would begin on East 46th Street and expand 11 blocks north, per the Commercial Observer. 

The overhaul comes at a time when many of the office buildings in the area are struggling to keep their tenants, which has re-directed the city’s attention towards creating friendlier public spaces for central business districts in Manhattan. The Park Avenue overhaul would mirror Mayor Eric Adams’ revitalization of Fifth Avenue, an initiative that hopes to transform the city’s most famous street by increasing pedestrian space, improving bus and bike lanes and expanding lighting and green space. 

Although we’re just at the first step of Park Avenue’s restoration, the potential for its return to its former glory is looking more plausible than ever—amazing news for those of us who love our hot girl walks. 

* This article was originally published here

Wait, what tennis match? The Honey Deuce cocktail, US Open’s beloved signature beverage since 2006, seems to be getting more attention than the tournament itself.

Now that the 2024 US Open is underway, attendees are venturing to Flushing, Queens, for an evening of competition. Of course, figuring out where to eat and drink at the US Open is of the utmost importance. The likes of Carnegie Deli, Red Hook Lobster Pound, Lavazza, and Van Leeuwen have piqued visitors’ interest, but the Grey Goose-based cocktail has practically become synonymous with sporting event.

In 2023, 450,000 Honey Deuces were served at the US Open, generating almost $10 million in revenue, according to the alcohol brand. Needless to say, it’s likely the $23 beverage will continue to be a money-maker this year. Plus, the bev is getting in on the merch action. While at the games this year, shoppers can snag new Honey Deuce hats, Grey Goose cups, and even t-shirts. Additionally, Grey Goose teamed up with tennis star Frances Tiafoe to give the fan-favorite drink a little extra love. (Not that it needed any.)

What is a Honey Deuce cocktail at the US Open?

Former Grey Goose ambassador Nick Mautone was once tasked with creating a delicious drink that could be enjoyed in bulk during the US Open. After picking up honeydew for a dessert, its likeness to tennis balls got him thinking. Ultimately, he concocted the now iconic drink by topping off a combination of sweet ingredients with small circular honey dew balls, a fitting garnish for the sporting event.

The post You’ll Never Guess How Much Honey Deuce Cocktails Generate At The US Open appeared first on Secret NYC.

* This article was originally published here

The views from Roosevelt Island are themselves works of art, but even more art is coming to the island this September. The Fall for Arts Festival and Jazz Concert features live mural painting, plus musical performances, sing-alongs and interactive dance.

The festival will take over the island’s Meditation Lawn and library plaza on Saturday, September 14 (with a rain date set for Sunday, September 15). 

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Muralists will plain en plein air on the lawn with two themes in mind: “Waves of Change” and “Hidden Places.” They’ll have all day, from 10am to 5pm, to bring their vision to life on 6-by-8 feet canvases. All are invited to look on while the artists exercise their creativity.

After the acrylic paint or spray paint dries, a team from the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation will add a protective layer, so the artwork can stick around for viewing for several weeks to come. 

Other activities on September 14 include jazz concerts at 11am and 2:30pm on the Roosevelt Island Library Plaza. The Main Street Theatre & Dance Alliance will host a family sing-along at 10am and an interactive dance at 1:45pm, both on the meditation lawn near the live painting demos. Expect food vendors on site as well. 

While you’re on Roosevelt Island, be sure to check out Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park, a lush escape that celebrates the Roosevelt’s legacy and offers beautiful skyline views. Also check out historic attractions like the Blackwell Island Lighthouse, the beautiful Chapel of the Good Shepherd, Smallpox Hospital ruins, and The Girl Puzzle sculpture.

And be sure to book a reservation for drinks at The Panorama Room, a rooftop bar with unmatched views. 

* This article was originally published here