The Upper East Side is increasingly becoming a focal point of political influence in New York City. This trend is underscored by recent developments, including the appointment of Tricia Shimamura as Commissioner of Parks and Recreation by Mayor Zohran Mamdani.
Political Center of Gravity
Shimamura, an Upper East Side resident, will oversee the city’s parks, beaches, and wetlands, which comprise approximately 13 percent of the city’s total land area. Her appointment follows that of City Council Speaker Julie Menin, also a resident of the UES. Assembly member Alex Bores, also from the UES, is now among 11 Democrats vying for the 12th District Congressional seat being vacated by Jerry Nadler.
Shimamura’s experience includes service on Community Board 8 and, most recently, as Manhattan Borough Commissioner for the City Department of Parks & Recreation. The appointment evokes the legacy of Henry Stern, another Upper East Sider who previously held the Parks Commissioner position.
Local Concerns and Changes
Beyond the shifting political landscape, residents are facing everyday challenges. The bus stop on Lexington Avenue between 88th and 89th Streets, while equipped with a timer indicating arrival times for the M102 and M103 buses, sometimes displays wait times as long as 45 minutes. Express buses do not stop at this location.
Meanwhile, a new business may soon fill a long-vacant storefront on Lexington Avenue. According to Upper East Site, Fellini’s, an Italian coffee cafe, is planning to open next to Patis, a popular kosher bakery.
A separate issue highlighted is the difficulty of navigating the Barnes & Noble bookstore at 3rd and 86th Street, particularly due to crowded aisles and the presence of numerous infants and strollers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the new Parks Commissioner?
Tricia Shimamura, an Upper East Side resident, has been appointed as the new Commissioner of Parks and Recreation.
What percentage of New York City land does the Parks Department oversee?
The parks, beaches, and wetlands overseen by the Parks Department comprise about 13 percent of the city’s land.
Which Congressional seat is currently open?
The 12th District Congressional seat, currently held by Jerry Nadler, is being vacated and is being contested by 11 Democratic candidates, including Upper East Side Assembly member Alex Bores.
As the Upper East Side continues to gain prominence in New York City politics and commerce, how might these changes impact the daily lives of residents throughout the city?
