SAVE THE ST. MARK'S GREENSPACE
Sign a Petition to Support a Win-Win Solution for St. Mark’s and Our Community
St. Mark’s Episcopal Church has been a cornerstone of Jackson Heights for generations, providing spiritual guidance, community, and space for children and families. Today, the Church faces financial challenges, and the future of its greenspace—currently used by parishioners and the Jackson Heights Early Learning Center—hangs in the balance.
We believe there is a solution that supports both the Church and the neighborhood: a partnership with the NYC Parks Department. By selling the lot to the City, St. Mark’s can generate critical revenue to strengthen its mission, while our community gains desperately needed public greenspace.
Jackson Heights has the least public greenspace of any neighborhood in New York City. Preserving this space for children, families, and seniors would be a gift to the community and a lasting legacy for St. Mark’s.
Please sign below to show your support for this collaborative path forward—and help us spread the word to friends and neighbors. Together, we can create a solution that sustains St. Mark’s and gives our community room to breathe, play, and gather.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What's the status of St. Marks' play yard?
The church wants to sell the green space used by parishioners and the Jackson Heights Early Learning Center. Council Member Krishnan and the NYC Parks Department approached the Diocese with a solution that benefits everyone: sell the lot to the City and allow the community to preserve much needed greenspace.
What has been the communication between the Episcopal Diocese and the City?
Since last fall, Council Member Krishnan has expressed serious interest from the City to buy the land to the Bishop and the Diocese. Along with Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas, they are eager to meet and negotiate a solution that benefits the community and the Church.
Why does the Church want to sell?
Church leaders say they need money for building costs and programs.
What happens if the land goes to a developer?
The community loses all control. Reports say it could become a walk-in clinic, luxury developments, or charter school.
Why do we need a park?
Jackson Heights is one of the most crowded neighborhoods in NYC. We rank at the bottom for public green space. Families, children, and seniors need room to breathe, play, and gather.
Who supports this plan?
Parishioners, local community groups, and neighbors. Council Member Shekar Krishnan and Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas. Community Board 3 voted overwhelmingly in favor.
Has the Church agreed to sell?
Not yet. The community is asking them to come to the table to find a solution that works for everyone.
How fast could this become a park?
The City has funding ready — Council Member Krishnan and Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas have secured funds. The sale and conversion can move quickly.
Isn’t 34th Avenue already public space?
Yes — but it’s not true green space. This greenspace next to St. Mark’s is our chance for permanent grass, trees, and play areas.
Who will care for the park?
NYC Parks will maintain it, like any public park.
How can neighbors help?
Speak out. Sign the petition. Contact the Church in a Respectful Manner. Show we are united.
