The Federated Blocks of Laurelton have recently launched a series of beautification projects to expand the beauty and value of the neighborhood. On October 31, 2026 , Renee Williams, 2nd Vice President and Chair of the Beautification Committee worked alongside volunteers from the community and Board Member Sharon Johnson to plant daffodil bulbs in the tree pits between Springfield Blvd and 217th Street.
The tree pits around Merrick Blvd often serve as a dumping ground for litter and it’s everyone’s responsibility to keep them clean and covered as a green space. When you compare the tree pits in Laurelton, Queens and Manhattan, it’s night and day. Tree pits are maintained in Manhattan by the Business Improvement Districts like the Fifth Avenue Association or the Madison Square Park Conservancy. They may also have the support of NYC Public Space Equity Program which provides horticulture care. Another resource, is the NYC DEP Rain Garden Stewardship Program. This initiative provides community members with resources so that they can serve as stewards to the tree pits in the neighborhoods.
The Federated Blocks of Laurelton have long standing track record of bringing change to the community but they need your help. The organization will initiate events and access resources but it takes a collective to set forth change. The Federation will hosting it’s next Clean up event on Veterans Day, November 11, 2026 at 9AM meeting at 223rd Street and Merrick Blvd.
