Sherman Square

Broadway &, W 70th St, New York, NY 10023

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About the Location

Historical Background

Sherman Square is a small pocket park located at the intersection of Broadway, Amsterdam Avenue, and West 70th Street on the Upper West Side of Manhattan, New York City. Named after Civil War General William Tecumseh Sherman in 1891, the park occupies a triangular plot of land that was created when Broadway was extended through the area at an angle, disrupting the original street grid.

Park Layout

The fenced-in portion of Sherman Square, which protects its vegetation, covers only 264 square feet (24.5 square meters) and forms a scalene triangle. This green space sits within a larger paved triangle.

The park's dimensions are modest, with 17 feet (5.2 meters) facing 70th Street, 35 feet (11 meters) facing Broadway, and 30 feet (9.1 meters) facing Amsterdam Avenue.

Transformation Over Time

Sherman Square has a complex history. In the 1960s and 1970s, it and the nearby Verdi Square were collectively known as "Needle Park" due to prevalent drug activity in the area.

This notoriety inspired the 1971 film "The Panic in Needle Park". However, the park and surrounding neighborhood have since undergone significant changes and revitalization efforts.

Current Role

Today, Sherman Square serves as a small green oasis in the bustling Upper West Side. It provides a spot for local residents and passersby to pause and enjoy a moment of respite amidst the urban environment.

The park's location at a busy intersection means it sees a steady flow of foot traffic and serves as a recognizable landmark in the neighborhood.

All Features & Facilities

Nature & Wildlife

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Visitor Services

Memorial

Opening Hours

Monday:Open 24 hours
Tuesday:Open 24 hours
Wednesday:Open 24 hours
Thursday:Open 24 hours
Friday:Open 24 hours
Saturday:Open 24 hours
Sunday:Open 24 hours

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