Lt. William Tighe Triangle

Lt. William Tighe Triangle, situated at the confluence of Seaman Avenue, Riverside Drive, and Dyckman Street in New York, NY 10040, is a remarkable "Scenic Spot" within the vibrant Inwood neighborhood of Manhattan. This 0.16-acre triangular plaza, managed by NYC Parks, is far more than a simple patch of green; it is the cherished home of the Riverside Inwood Neighborhood Garden (RING Garden), a community-driven ornamental garden that serves as a verdant oasis amidst the urban landscape. Its designation as a "Scenic Spot" is derived from the deliberate cultivation of beauty, tranquility, and unique features that provide a visually appealing and calming experience for local users and visitors.

The history of Lt. William Tighe Triangle is deeply intertwined with its community. Originally known as Inwood Plaza, the land was transferred to NYC Parks on January 1, 1938. In 1950, it was formally renamed to honor Lieutenant William Tighe, an Inwood community leader and a veteran of two world wars, who had dedicated his efforts to caring for the triangle and even setting up its Christmas tree each year. The transformation into the beloved RING Garden began in 1984, when local residents, spearheaded by figures like Maggie Clarke, envisioned turning a trash-strewn traffic island into a botanical haven. This initiative, one of the first "Greenstreets" projects in NYC, involved significant community effort and funding from various sources. Over the years, continuous investment and volunteer work have shaped it into the celebrated garden it is today, winning numerous awards and becoming a cornerstone of the neighborhood.

The environment of Lt. William Tighe Triangle is a testament to dedicated community gardening. It is described as "so serene and peaceful," offering a striking contrast to the surrounding city. The garden's design is inspired by European ornamental gardens, featuring hundreds of varieties of trees, shrubs, perennials, annuals, groundcovers, and bulbs. These diverse plantings create a constantly evolving landscape of colors and textures throughout the seasons. The garden is meticulously maintained by volunteers, contributing to its pristine appearance. A central and beloved feature of this environment is a large pond, often referred to as a "koi pond," which adds a dynamic and soothing element with its aquatic life. Customer reviews explicitly mention the presence of a "mini aquarium there," further enhancing the park's appeal. The garden is enclosed, creating a sense of privacy and separation from the bustling streets, though one reviewer noted, "It's not as private as you think but it's like an oasis of viewtifulness." Its location just north of Fort Tryon Park provides a strategic position in an area rich with other green spaces, yet it stands out as a unique, cultivated space.

As a "Scenic Spot" that functions primarily as a community garden, Lt. William Tighe Triangle offers a range of services and activities centered around nature appreciation, relaxation, and community engagement. While it does not offer traditional goods for sale, its value lies in the aesthetic and recreational services it provides. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls along its pathways, find a quiet bench for reading or contemplation, and simply immerse themselves in the beauty of the plants and the tranquility of the pond. A unique service mentioned in reviews is the opportunity for volunteerism, with individuals helping to "water the plants, helping feed the koi," directly contributing to the garden's upkeep and fostering a sense of ownership among locals. This volunteer-driven model underscores its community spirit. The garden also hosts various community events throughout the year, such as annual flea markets, art shows, music performances (including "Make Music Day" events), and a popular holiday tree and menorah lighting ceremony. These events transform the garden into a vibrant social hub, offering cultural and recreational services to the wider community. Access to the garden is generally free, though a specific mention of a "$5 for access to the garden" with a "student ID" suggests some controlled access or special programs for students, potentially related to tours or specific educational opportunities, rather than general admission. The public phone number (212) 639-9675 connects to NYC Parks, which can provide general information about the park.

The features of Lt. William Tighe Triangle, primarily the RING Garden, are carefully designed to maximize its beauty and utility. Key features include:

• Ornamental Garden: The garden is adorned with hundreds of varieties of trees, shrubs, perennials, annuals, and groundcovers, creating a vibrant and ever-changing botanical display.
• Koi Pond: A significant and popular feature is the large pond, home to koi fish, providing a focal point for visitors and a soothing presence.
• Mini Aquarium: As noted by a customer, the presence of a "mini aquarium" further adds to the aquatic attractions within the garden, appealing particularly to children and those interested in marine life.
• Seating Areas: Benches and quiet nooks are interspersed throughout the garden, inviting visitors to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
• Historical Features: The garden houses elements of its rich history, potentially including remnants from its past or dedications related to Lt. William Tighe.
• Community-Maintained: The fact that the garden is sustained by "over 100 members and about two dozen dedicated volunteers" is a feature in itself, showcasing the strong community involvement.
• Seasonal Decorations: An annual holiday tradition includes decorating a dwarf blue spruce tree with lights and placing a menorah, creating a festive atmosphere during winter.

Renovations in 2000 enlarged the garden and added a drinking fountain, enhancing visitor convenience. Further capital grants have supported improvements like concrete walls, new entrances, an arbor, a shed, and a wrought iron fence, all contributing to the garden's maintained quality and aesthetics.

Promotional information for Lt. William Tighe Triangle would highlight its unique character as a "serene and peaceful" community garden in Manhattan. Emphasis would be placed on its beauty, the presence of the popular koi pond and "mini aquarium," and its status as a volunteer-maintained urban oasis. The garden's historical significance, honoring Lt. William Tighe, and its role as one of NYC's early Greenstreets projects could be used to attract visitors interested in local history and urban greening initiatives. Promotions would invite community participation through volunteer opportunities, encouraging residents to contribute to and feel a part of this special place. Details about upcoming community events, such as music performances or holiday celebrations, would be actively shared to draw crowds and foster community spirit. The park's accessibility via public transportation (given its location at major intersections) would also be a key promotional point. The phone number (212) 639-9675 can be used for inquiries. Overall, the message would convey Lt. William Tighe Triangle as a cherished neighborhood "Scenic Spot" that offers a tranquil, beautiful, and engaging experience, sustained by the dedication of its community.

Lt. William Tighe Triangle

Seaman Avenue, Riverside Drive, Dyckman St, New York, NY 10040, USA