Robert De Niro emphasized in his letter that taking away the Elizabeth Street Garden would erase a vital part of New York City's cultural history, saying, "This garden is a testament to our shared heritage and should be preserved. It serves as a reminder of what our community values and the continuity of our collective identity." He urged city officials to reconsider their plans in light of the deep communal ties the garden represents.
Patti Smith, recalling her experiences at the garden, poignantly described it as an "entirely unique public sanctuary that brings people together in ways that highlight the beauty of our shared existence. Its reclamation for commercial use would signify the loss of an irreplaceable space where creativity and community thrive together, a space that nurtures the spirit of our city."
Martin Scorsese echoed these sentiments by lamenting the potential loss of the garden, stating, "This park is more than just greenery; it reflects the heart and soul of our culture. The plans for a housing project, however important, shouldn't come at the expense of preserving the cultural landmarks that have shaped us. We must find a way to honor both housing needs and cultural heritage."
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