Cultural-asset Mapping and Policy Analysis in Gowanus, New York City

2017

Gowanus is one of the last pockets of industrial land in New York City and one that is tagged for upzoning and housing development in Mayor Bill de Blasio’s housing plan. Gowanus is also home to a vibrant community of artists, who are threatened by housing development and gentrification. Eparque worked with Arts Gowanus, a community arts advocacy group, to formulate policy choices for the community of artists in the area. We did a baseline socioeconomic study, then produced a cultural-asset map, a map of artist studios and institutions, and a survey of artists to understand their spatial needs. Based on these studies, we then fleshed out some clear policy demands for the community to bring to the Department of City Planning.