The Lower East Side: An Endangered Place (2009)

Through interviews with a broad spectrum of Lower East residents, this documentary commissioned by Two Bridges Neighborhood Council explores the impact of gentrification on their lives. As real estate prices have increased, many long-term residents have been displaced and a number of well-known family businesses have shut their doors. Landlords have used both legal and illegal means to evict residential and commercial tenants. Meanwhile, conditions have improved in the community. Crime is down and city services have improved. The filmmakers interviewed long-term residents and new arrivals, people on all sides of the complex and controversial issue of gentrification. The film is intended to spark a dialogue - and eventually a campaign - to preserve the diversity, vitality, and unique culture of the Lower East Side.