our Impact

Strengthening Coney Island Through Community Action and Climate Resilience

The Coney Island Beautification Project (CIBP) was founded in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy to bring sustainable, community-led solutions to a neighborhood at the front lines of climate change. Since then, we’ve mobilized thousands of volunteers, collaborated with dozens of organizations, and led high-impact initiatives focused on environmental justice, education, advocacy, and resilience.

CIBP believes that long-term change starts from the ground up—through grassroots action, youth education, coalition-building, and the belief that every resident has the right to a cleaner, greener, and safer Coney Island.

Coney Island Beautification Project has worked to improve Coney Island and beyond through grassroots, volunteer action.

Together, we have:

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Improved Water Quality Awareness

We partnered with the NYC Department of Environmental Protection to install signage and develop a community-based tracking system for combined sewer overflows, helping residents better understand and report water quality concerns.

Secured Legislative Wins

In coalition with other organizations, we’ve helped pass major citywide environmental legislation, including: The Plastic Bag Ban, A 30% Citywide Tree Canopy Cover goal and Urban Forestry Management Plan and The Flood Risk “Right to Know” Law, improving access to climate hazard information.

Amplified Community Voices

CIBP ensures that Coney Island residents are represented in key policy conversations. We’ve served on the South Brooklyn COAD, NYCHA’s Climate Committee, and other advisory groups, pushing for local policies that reduce climate impacts, protect green space, and support community resilience.

Educated the Next Generation

We’ve reached hundreds of local students annually through environmental education programming on Earth Day and City of Water Day. Our youth outreach includes climate science, wildlife monitoring, pollution awareness, and hands-on activities to inspire future environmental leaders.

Greened Our Community

Each year, CIBP organizes a day of service to commemorate Hurricane Sandy. This includes planting and distributing over 20,000 daffodil bulbs throughout Coney Island tree beds, and providing green trash bags for the Adopt-a-Basket waste reduction program. Our urban greening work reduces heat, improves air quality, and beautifies shared spaces.

Looking ahead

Coney Island faces ongoing challenges—from sea level rise to development pressures—but the spirit of the community remains strong.

CIBP continues to grow, adapt, and lead with solutions that center equity, science, and lived experience.

We’re committed to expanding our programming, deepening our collaborations, and continuing to advocate for policies that prioritize our neighborhoods and natural resources.

We’re currently working to

  • Expand stormwater management and flood mitigation projects

  • Train more youth and community leaders in climate preparedness

  • Launch new data-driven tools to track environmental conditions in real time

  • Host public forums to ensure transparency and resident involvement in local decision-making

Help Us Keep the Momentum Going

Our impact is only possible thanks to the volunteers, donors, and collaborators who believe in our mission. Whether you’re a community member, funder, or advocate, your support drives our work forward.

Volunteer With Us →

Join clean-ups, tree plantings, and community events.

Donate to Support Our Work →

Help fund our environmental and advocacy efforts.

Collaborate With Us →

Businesses, schools, and nonprofits can collaborate to amplify our impact.