$1 Million Up for Grabs as UES ‘Participatory Budgeting’ Voting Gets Underway

As “participatory budgeting” voting gets underway (March 29 to April 6), Upper East Siders living in City Council Member Julie Menin’s District 5 will choose among 12 “finalist” projects that have a chance to get a chunk of a $1 million pot.

The annual democratic tradition, which kicked off in 2011, allows the local community to identify and crowdfund overlooked causes. All residents aged 11 and up, regardless of whether they are citizens or not, can vote so long as their address is inside the boundaries of the district–which includes the UES, a bit of East Harlem, and Roosevelt Island.

”In today’s complex political climate, local engagement is more important than ever. And by bringing people of all ages together in our community for participatory budgeting, we foster dialogue and civic responsibility that benefits future generations and strengthens the democratic process as a whole,” Julie Menin told Our Town.

”Our past successes with participatory budgeting demonstrate the effectiveness of this approach. I remain committed to ensuring our constituents continue to have a voice in the decisions that directly impact our district,” she added.

According to Menin’s office, the choices on the ballot are as follows:

*Classroom Renovations for MS 114, 331 E. 91st St., $300,000: Flexible seating, dry-erase boards, interactive whiteboards, and flooring repairs to create a comfortable, safe learning environment for students.

*Classroom Upgrades for PS 198 & PS 77, 1700 Third Ave., $400,000: Upgrades, including new floors, closets, sinks, and cabinets to provide the best learning spaces for the shared schools.”

*New Art Studio for MS 167, 220 E. 76th St., $500,000: A new art studio, equipped with sinks, durable flooring, sturdy cabinets, and functional furniture to inspire and showcase student creativity.

*New and Improved Bathrooms for PS 267, 213 E. 63rd St., $450,000: Three bathroom renovations to improve functionality, accessibility, and overall facilities.

*New and Improved Bathrooms for MS 416, 411 E. 76th St., $450,000: “Three bathroom renovations to enhance functionality, accessibility, and improve facilities.

*New and Improved Bathrooms for MS 177, 1458 York Ave., $300,000: Two bathroom renovations to improve functionality, accessibility, and overall facilities.

*New and Improved Bathrooms for PS/IS 217, 645 Main St., $450,000: Three bathroom renovations to enhance functionality, accessibility, and improve facilities.

*Media Room for PS 527, 323 E. 91st St., $500,000: A new media room with computers, green screens, and interactive tech to allow students to explore new technology and creativity.

*Auditorium Upgrade for Performing Arts School (M225, M565 & M449), 317 E. 67th St., $500,000: Auditorium upgrades will improve seating, stage floors, sound, and lighting to elevate student experiences and performances.

*Protective Tree Guard and Benches for District 5, $100,000: Installation of 50 tree guards and new benches will protect trees and provide spaces for rest, fostering community and social connections.

*Building Upgrades for NYPD’s 19th Precinct, 153 E. 67th St., $300,000: Upgrades may include ventilation improvements and enhanced garage security system.

*Permanent Pickleball Court to John Jay Park, FDR Drive (East 76th-78th streets), $300,000: This court would replace two middle handball courts and the in-between fence. The surface would change from concrete to asphalt with sportcoating.

Locals can vote online at https://rnd.council.nyc.gov/PB_Voting/. They can also do so in-person at the following locations: Roosevelt Island Library at 504 Main St.; 67th Street Library at 328 E. 67th St.; Webster Library at 1465 York Ave.; Yorkville Library at 222 E. 79th St.; 96th Street Library at 112 E. 96th St.; Lenox Hill Neighborhood House at 331 E 70th St.; and the Carter Burden Network at 415 E. 73rd St.