UnionSquarePartnership

Welcome to the Union Square Partnership!

A 501(c)(3) non-profit organization

Executive Director’s Message

Whether you're looking for the latest news about what’s hot in Union Square, information about the district's world-famous Greenmarket, or just want to know more about USP's direct services and programs, you'll find it all here.

Visit often to find out what's new in the neighborhood, and sign up for our monthly e-newsletter to have the information delivered directly to you.  Help make our new website Union Square’s one stop location for the very best and latest information about our community by submitting upcoming events, and alerting us to district deals.

Your thoughts, questions and volunteer service are always welcome so please feel free to contact us.  We look forward to hearing from you soon.

The Union Square Partnership Team

PS - for the latest on the North End Project, check out In The News for media coverage of our new play space, and visit the project mini-site the most recent construction update.

Square Happenings

  •   Big Belly's Greening Union Square

    USP is the first business improvement district in New York City to pilot the use of the Big Belly solar-powered trash compactor.  Three units were placed at some of the Union Square district’s busiest corners at 14th Street & Broadway, 14th Street & University Place, and 17th Street & Broadway to gauge their effectiveness.  The compactors have already made a huge impact by reducing garbage collection frequency by nearly 70% at these corners.  Due to the success of the initial three units, an additional five were added for use in Union Square Park, complimenting the NYC Department of Sanitation's existing recycling pilot program.

  •   New School's Construction Info Website

    The New School launched a brand new website regarding the new University Center and other capital projects happening at the campus.  Construction is set to commence in 2010 creating a distinctive and unifying centerpiece for the university's urban campus.

  •   2010 USP Sponsorship Opportunities

    USP has a multitude of ways for neighborhood businesses to market themselves within the district. Look up above and check out our winter lamppost banners supported by our partners at Best Buy, Filene's Basement, SushiSamba and Buchbinder & Warren.  

    Or give us a call to discuss our 2010 Summer in the Square series, which takes place on Thursdays from June 17th thru August 12th.  The free community program offers a vibrant mix of fitness activities, children's entertainment and musical performances on the park’s South Plaza, and attracts thousands of families, area employees, shoppers, students and tourists each week.  

    For more information about these and other opportunities, contact Carin Cardone at 212 460-1200.

  •   USP Opinion Survey Results Announced

    USP's 2009 neighborhood opinion survey was conducted this past summer with respondents giving us their thoughts on core sanitation and security services, park improvements, and quality of life issues such as congested sidewalks.

    USP thank you for the over 300 responses we received from residents and businesses that represent a range of neighborhood constituencies.  Please follow the links to view 2009 results on neighborhood issues and pedestrian volumes.

  •   2010 NYC Restaurant Week Extended

    This winter's NYC Restaurant Week marks an all-time high with more than 260 restaurants offering prix-fixe menus now thru February 28th with a blackout date on February 14th.  Meals at eateries remain $24.07 for three-course prix-fixe lunches and $35 for three-course prix-fixe dinners not including beverages, tax and gratuity.

    The promotion is not offered on Saturdays and restaurants have the option to offer the program on Sundays.  Visit local Union Square establishments like Blue Water Grill and Rosa Mexicano to partake in this annual event. 

  •   Go Local: Shopping in Union Square

    NYC & Company unveiled its latest promotional campaign NYC Extreme Local, Thanksgiving day weekend. NYC encourages holiday shoppers to check out special events, stores and restaurants in 15 neighborhoods, including Union Square. Sponsored by American Express and AT&T, the campaign is showcasing 650 businesses and cultural attractions, including Union Square Cafe, Italian Wine Merchants and Rothman’s to name a few.

     

  •   Be Counted: 2010 Census Coming Soon

    USP reminds you that the U.S. Census will be distributed this March and it’s easy, safe and super important to complete!

    The census is a count of everyone living in the United States including citizens and non-citizens. With just 10 questions, the 2010 questionnaire will take only a few minutes to complete. So fill it out and send it back in the prepaid envelope and know that all responses are kept strictly confidential.

    Census data is impacts how more than $300 billion in federal funds gets distributed each year so make sure you’re counted so New York State gets its fair share.

  •   NYC Offers New Resources for Local Biz

    Did you know? NYC Business Express is the one-stop online tool for information and applications for licenses, permits, taxes and incentives for any business in NYC.

     

    By using the tool, entrepreneurs can answer questions in order to set up a business scenario. NYC Business Express then generates a customized list of licenses, permits, taxes, and regulations that are typically needed for that business scenario, as well as links to application materials and information about where to apply.

    For some business licenses, permits, and certifications, business owners can apply directly through the site. The NYC Business Express Incentives Estimator can even help businesses determine the City, State and Federal incentives for which they may qualify.

     

The Square Blog

  • Gearing Up for Spring Cleaning & Street Tree Planting February 24, 2010 1:23 PM

    Even though it's cold outside, USP is busy preparing for the district’s spring cleaning and the coming warmer months.  Repainting street furniture from lampposts to mailboxes, graffiti removal and power washing are all set to begin in early April as is the additional park Clean Team.  Landscapers are busy tagging plants for spring planting and new bistro tables, chairs and umbrellas as well as trash receptacles and lamppost planters on are order for this season. More

  • Spring Weather & Events Are Just Around The Corner! February 18, 2010 1:26 PM

    The cold winter months can make us forget that spring doesn't just bring flowers, it is also the start of the busy summer season in Union Square.  Don't miss out on the exciting (and free!) happenings in and around the park including annual events like the NYC Grows Festival (Sunday, April 25th).  If volunteering is more your thing, roll up your sleeves on Saturday, May 15th for It's My Park! Day, which includes raking, planting and other beautification activities with the USP Team. More

  • New Union Square Playground Getting Rave Reviews January 20, 2010 9:00 AM

    From The Villager: The new, expanded Union Square Park playground opened two weeks ago... [and] word got around quickly to children and parents, who flocked to the space at the north end of the park... “We couldn’t be more thrilled that the Union Square Park’s expanded playground is open,” Jennifer Falk, executive director of the partnership, said. “The kids have given it a huge thumbs up and parents and caregivers have been overwhelmingly positive.”

  • Spring Weather & Events Are Just Around The Corner! February 18, 2010 1:26 PM

    The cold winter months can make us forget that spring doesn't just bring flowers, it is also the start of the busy summer season in Union Square.  Don't miss out on the exciting (and free!) happenings in and around the park including annual events like the NYC Grows Festival (Sunday, April 25th).  If volunteering is more your thing, roll up your sleeves on Saturday, May 15th for It's My Park! Day, which includes raking, planting and other beautification activities with the USP Team. More

  • New Union Square Playground Getting Rave Reviews January 20, 2010 9:00 AM

    From The Villager: The new, expanded Union Square Park playground opened two weeks ago... [and] word got around quickly to children and parents, who flocked to the space at the north end of the park... “We couldn’t be more thrilled that the Union Square Park’s expanded playground is open,” Jennifer Falk, executive director of the partnership, said. “The kids have given it a huge thumbs up and parents and caregivers have been overwhelmingly positive.”

The Biz Buzz

City Space Suites

Whether pursuing your newest business venture or resizing your company, City Space Suites has a wide variety of full-time offices for rent. Rates include furniture, internet, phones, utilities, receptionist, daily cleaning and tech support.

The entire infrastructure is set up from the moment you step out of the elevator. As a result, start up and capital investment costs are virtually eliminated. Be sure to find out more about the rental packages available today!

Visit: City Space Suites

Coffee Shop / The Lounge

Located west of the park, Coffee Shop is New York City's hot spot to see and be seen in Union Square whether meeting for power business breakfast, or grabbing a drink after work at the restaurant bar or downstairs in The Lounge. 

Coffee Shop offers breakfast, lunch and dinner and patio seating outside in the warm weather months.

Visit: Coffee Shop and The Lounge

Baked by Melissa

Baked by Melissa's second New York City location opened in Union Square in December 2009, selling a collection of bite-sized stuffed cupcakes with giant taste.  Flavors include s'mores, cookie dough, peanut butter cup and PB&J.


The bakery's offerings were designed to allow customers to taste a variety of flavors with every visit and not feel overwhelmed by post-dessert guilt.  Baked by Melissa is the perfect spot for anyone who has the sudden to satisfy their sweet tooth.


Visit: Baked by Melissa

Pret A Manger

The mantra "our service is fast but we don't sell fast food" is the secret to Pret a Manger’s success. Each morning, fresh food offerings are cooked, and sandwiches prepared, ensuring customers always receive a crisp, delicious meal at every visit.


The new Union Square store, co-designed by English interior designer Rita Konig, is the company’s flagship location, offering plenty of comfortable seating and free Wi-Fi for patrons. Stop by any day of the week to dine-in, or to grab a picnic lunch for the park.


Visit: Pret a Manger

Union Square Cafe

For more than 20 years, the Union Square Cafe has served its own style of food and customer service to neighborhood visitors from around the region and the world. USC pairs imaginative food and fine wine with thoughtful hospitality, comfortable surroundings and exceptional value.


Dedicated to supporting their community and shopping local, USC purchases many of its ingredients from the district's local Greenmarket, and supports beautification programs in the park. Accolades are nothing new for this neighborhood institution with Zagat rating them its #1 Restaurant 8 times between 1997 and 2008.


Visit: Union Square Cafe

Union Square Wines & Spirits

For a great bottle of wine, look no further than Union Square Wines & Spirits with its amazing selection of wine from every continent as well as local vineyards.  Don't miss the sakes and specialty liquors, and the store features a helpful guide to match your choice to every possible meal or occasion.


For something new, check out their classes and tasting events, or just try a six-pack of wine, which caters to seasonal or regional themes, and is designed to demonstrate the versatility of a region's vineyards or provide flexibility for any menu.


Visit: Union Square Wines & Spirits

'wichcraft

Casual sandwiches with an upscale taste are available at ‘wichcraft with eleven New York City locations including one at 20th Street and Broadway.


‘wichcraft offers a variety of warm and cold sandwiches complemented by an array of salads and soups to make the perfect lunch for walk-in customers at a reasonable price.  The Union Square location also serves dinner with a delightful array of dishes prepared by Chef Tom Colicchio.


Visit: 'wichcraft

Rothman’s

Union Square is home to New York City’s premier men’s clothing store, Rothman’s, which sells business attire for men including suits, sports coats, outerwear and sportswear.  


Among their many featured designers are fashion moguls Hugo Boss, John Varvatos and Calvin Klein to name just a few.  Rothman’s also offers a selection of suits for children, caters to special occasions including weddings, and provides alterations on site.  


Visit: Rothman's

Whole Foods Market

Directly south of Union Square Park, Whole Foods Market provides the neighborhood with natural and organic food options.  Whole Foods is committed to buying from local growers and selling locally-produced products including everything from chips to artisanal cheeses, and summer squash to scented soaps.


In addition to aisles of food you can prepare at home, the store offers prepared food and coffee that can be eaten right in the café space on the buildings upper floor.  Look for the “Health Starts Here” logos around the store for assistance in making healthy choices.


Visit: Whole Foods Market

L.A. Burdick Chocolate

In 1984, Larry Burdick began making chocolates in New York City for a small number of fine restaurants and over the next 25 years, L.A. Burdick Chocolate has grown into a thriving business, cooking in small batches using only the best couverture from Switzerland, France and Venezuela. 


L.A. Burdick opened its first location in the Union Square area in Fall 2009, and the café features Burdick’s famous chocolates, pastries, and beverages, as well as gift baskets for all your holiday needs.  Stop by and savor these unique, handmade chocolates.


Visit: L.A. Burdick Chocolate

Think Coffee


In Fall 2009, coffee retailer Think Coffee opened its third New York City location in Union Square. Think Coffee is grown using organic, fair-trade practices, and roasted just across the river locally in Brooklyn.


Espresso drinks, teas, and a collection of pastries complement the coffee, but the menu also expands into a selection of sandwiches, soups, and salads. The Union Square location is keeping patrons caffeinated from 7 AM to 11:30 PM Monday through Friday, and 8 AM to 11:30 PM on the weekends.


Visit: Think Coffee

Momofuku

Meaning “lucky peach” in Japanese, Momofuku Chef David Chang brings a new twist on American delicacies.  All ingredients come from local farms, using organic milk and free range pork, with dishes changing seasonally. 


Come sit and indulge your sweet tooth or take something for the road; the Milk Bar serves up all kinds of treats, from cookies and cakes to ice cream, sandwiches, and savory pastries.  Pre-orders can also be made for parties, birthdays, or even weddings so check the bakery's website for details.


Visit: Momofuku Milk Bar

Dos Toros

This fall, two brothers from San Francisco opened Dos Toros to fill a gap in traditional West Coast taqueria food in the area.  Dos Toros prides itself on sustainable practices, using many organic ingredients and some locally-raised meats.


The menu is short and sweet with burritos, soft and hard tacos, quesadillas, and plates of the same ingredients sans tortillas for the carb conscious.  Those options can be filled with chicken, steak or pork, and are simply delicious with beans and guacamole.


Visit: Dos Toros

Boqueria

Named after the famous market in Barcelona, Boqueria prides itself on simple but exceptionally well prepared food to enjoy at any time of day. 


Their quintessential Spanish dishes are market-fresh, and the tapas bar allows you a choice between moderately-priced dishes sized from small (pinto) to plates for sharing (compartir), and wide selection of wines to pair with them. 


Visit: Boqueria

Best Buy

Best Buy Union Square celebrated the grand opening of its flagship store in November 2009.  This is Best Buy’s first store to be open 24 hours, and it includes all the CDs, DVD and electronic selections that made Best Buy famous, as well as a large selection of musical instruments and home appliances.


Look no further than Best Buy Union Square for all your electronic needs, and be sure to check the store’s website for special event listings and a weekly advertisement listing.


Visit: Best Buy

lululemon athletica

In addition to offering quality women and men's athletic apparel for yoga, running, dancing, and more, each lululemon athletica store offers complimentary yoga classes and goal setting seminars, a community board highlighting health and fitness opportunities in their area, and information about local yoga studies.


lululemon is very involved in the Union Square community, partnering with USP during our annual "Summer in the Square" series, organizing instructors for each week’s yoga class and providing mats.


Visit: lululemon athletica

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