This new introduction to Norman Street focuses on the many changes Greenpoint-Williamsburg has seen since the book was originally written. One the most important causes for change has been the gentrification of this area.
The Greenpoint-Williamsburg area became more popular since the 1980s when many people, especially artists, actors, and young professionals gathered here due to its affordability and accessibility. Many people were being pushed from Manhattan due to escalating rents, and this area proved a viable place to relocate to. The L subway line provides direct access into Manhattan. Greenpoint also had a significant increase in Polish immigrants since the original publication of Norman Street. What was once a singularly American area has become much more diverse with Polish newspapers and Polish songs commonplace in this area now.
Since the fiscal crisis of the 1970s, gentrification has occurred in many places across New York City. With poorer families being kicked out of their homes to make room for the more wealthy middle and upper middle class, people all over the city were struggling to find a place to live. By the 1980s, “the number of homeless families in New York City rose from a negligible 30 families in 1975 to over 11,000 families” (37-38). Homeless shelters became more popular, and within this system families were often divided and little money was given to maintain and upkeep these shelters. In Greenpoint-Williamsburg, landlord tenants have become stricter, knowing that if their tenants are not making the rent they can easily rent wealthier people. Many of the “hipster” tenants in this area are sharing apartments in order to make the rent.
Gentrification has also lead to further development of this area. Many warehouses have been taken down, allowing for a more open environment and views of the Manhattan skyline. Artist galleries and craft boutiques have become more popular in this area. McCarren Park was rehabilitated; the old hard ground was replaced with grass. Expensive apartments were built around this park. The public pool in this park just recently has been approved for renovations and reopening.
While Greenpoint-Williamsburg has seen much change over the years some things have remained the same. This area continues to see a sense of community activism. Many of the organizations mentioned in Norman Street are still in existence and are working to benefit the community. Before the McCarren Park pool was approved for reopening, this space was used for dancing lessons and concerts, similar to how space was utilized for the benefit of the community in the 1970s by blocking off street to give children a place to play. Even the Occupy Wall Street movement shows how New York City is continuing to protest and work for the betterment of its citizens just as it did in the 1970s.
