Murray Hill Celebrates Earth Day 2025 with “Walk the Earth” Event Exploring Neighborhood Green Spaces

This Earth Day, the Murray Hill Neighborhood Association brought the community together to celebrate sustainability, greenery, and the power of local stewardship with its “Walk the Earth” event. Organized by the Association’s Green & Clean committee and led by its chair, Maya Caballero, the walk highlighted the often-overlooked oasis of parks tucked into our bustling neighborhood.

Participants gathered on a beautiful spring day to embark on a guided walking tour of Murray Hill’s park spaces, each offering a unique glimpse into the area’s commitment to preserving urban green space. From blooming flowers such as daffodils, tulips, magnolias, and cherry blossoms to towering trees, each stop served as a reminder of the natural beauty that exists at our doorstep.

The walk included visits to Robert Moses Playground, Tudor Grove, Mary O’Connor Playground, Tudor City Greens North and South Parks, Ralph Bunche Park, Trygve Lie Plaza, East River Esplanade, the Park Avenue Malls from 34th to 40th Streets, and St. Vartan Park.

Maya Caballero brought each space to life as we toured the park with stories about their history, community efforts, and exciting future plans. Residents, along with City Council candidate Rachel Storch, MHNA President Jon Harari, and Kevin O’Keefe, President of the St. Vartan Conservancy, engaged in a lively discussion, proposing new ideas to green the neighborhood further. Suggestions included creating a public park spanning 38th to 41st Streets, from First Avenue to the FDR Drive; providing swings for toddlers and children with disabilities at the Tudor Grove and Mary O’Connor playgrounds; developing more expansive and comfortable dog runs for furry friends, and introducing a green market along the waterfront.

This year’s Walk the Earth was more than just a celebration—it was a call to action for all residents to stay involved, stay green, and continue making Murray Hill one of New York City’s most environmentally conscious neighborhoods.

To learn more about the Green & Clean committee and how you can get involved, become a member at: https://murrayhillnyc.org