Petrosino Square

A Hidden Slice of History

Situated in the crossroads where Little Italy, Nolita, and SoHo converge in Lower Manhattan, Petrosino Square is a small triangular haven with a big story. Framed by Cleveland Place, Lafayette Street, and Kenmare Street, this modest space sits just blocks from the grand Police Headquarters at 240 Centre Street.

Once simply known as Kenmare Square, this patch of urban calm was rechristened in 1987 to honor Lieutenant Joseph Petrosino - a true trailblazer who broke barriers as the first Italian-American to reach lieutenant rank in the NYPD. Petrosino wasn't just breaking glass ceilings, however - he was busy taking down criminals, leading the charge against organized crime and specifically the Black Hand (an early version of the Mafia) in early 20th century America.

A Fresh Face for an Old Space

Between 2008 and 2011, this little square got a serious makeover courtesy of a $2 million renovation project. The upgrade expanded walking space, spruced up the landscaping, and even added a Citi Bike station at the northern tip - meant for urban explorers looking to hop on and off the grid.

Though small, the square packs in plenty of character with bronze reliefs and plaques crafted by artist Carter Jones, commemorating both Lt. Petrosino and the NYPD. It's become something of a cultural hotspot too, regularly featuring public art installations that transform the space, and occasionally playing host to impromptu concerts that bring the square to life with melody and community spirit.

Nature in the Concrete Jungle

At the heart of Petrosino Square stands a magnificent mature tree, spreading its branches like a protective umbrella over visitors below. This natural centerpiece doesn't just provide welcome shade on sweltering New York summer days - it creates a sense of sanctuary and draws in birds that add their own soundtrack to the urban symphony.

Around the edges, carefully tended flowers and shrubs bring splashes of color and life to this city pocket. These green touches create a refreshing contrast to the surrounding cityscape - though you might want to keep an eye out for our feathered friends overhead!

Taking a Moment

Though modest in size, Petrosino Square makes clever use of its footprint with comfortable benches and distinctive paving that invites you to pause and breathe. It's remarkable how quickly the noise of the city seems to fade once you take a seat here, making it a favorite spot for nearby workers on lunch breaks and people-watchers alike.

You'll often spot locals walking their four-legged friends, giving the square its dog-friendly atmosphere. The lunch hour brings a gentle buzz as people from surrounding businesses unwrap sandwiches and open salad containers, claiming a few minutes of peace in their busy day.

Recent Open Streets initiatives have made the area even more pedestrian-friendly, improving access to this tranquil island amid Manhattan's endless energy. Whether you're taking five minutes to reorient yourself or using it as a meeting point before exploring the restaurants and boutiques of the surrounding neighborhoods, Petrosino Square offers that rare New York commodity - a moment of calm.