What we do
Protecting Coney Island’s People, Land, and Waters.
The Coney Island Beautification Project (CIBP) was founded in response to the devastation of Hurricane Sandy, a stark reminder of the vulnerability of our coastal community. Today, we are a powerful force for environmental advocacy, disaster preparedness, and climate resilience in Coney Island, Brooklyn.
Our work
We work at the intersection of environmental justice and community action, bringing together residents, schools, businesses, and government agencies to protect and improve our shared spaces. By hosting events, leading restoration projects, and advocating for policies that prioritize sustainability, we ensure that the people and environment of Coney Island can thrive for generations to come.
As a dense coastal community on the front lines of climate change, Coney Island faces multiple challenges—rising sea levels, flooding, pollution, and gentrification. Our work is dedicated to addressing these urgent issues through hands-on action, education, and advocacy.
CIBP focuses on three core areas of impact →
01.
Mobilizing People to Take Action
We believe that the best solutions come from within the community. That’s why we actively engage residents in environmental restoration and resilience projects that create visible improvements in their neighborhoods. Through hands-on initiatives, we transform neglected spaces, promote sustainability, and build a stronger, more connected community.
Community Greening & Beautification – We lead tree-planting efforts, create green spaces, and enhance public parks to improve air quality, reduce urban heat, and provide shade and beauty for residents.
Coastal Restoration & Flood Resilience – We collaborate with experts to implement projects that strengthen the shoreline, improve stormwater management, and protect Coney Island from future flooding.
Neighborhood Cleanups – We organize beach and street cleanups to reduce pollution and raise awareness about environmental responsibility.
By mobilizing volunteers, students, and local organizations, we foster a culture of environmental stewardship that creates lasting change.
02.
Community Organizing & Emergency Preparedness
As climate change increases the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, we are committed to keeping our community informed, prepared, and resilient. CIBP helps residents navigate the challenges of disaster preparedness and recovery by providing resources, training, and organizing efforts to ensure a rapid and coordinated response when crises arise.
Emergency Preparedness Workshops – We educate residents on disaster planning, evacuation procedures, and available resources to ensure safety during extreme weather events.
Rapid Response & Recovery – We organize volunteers to assist with post-storm cleanup, supply distribution, and rebuilding efforts after disasters.
Public Awareness & Advocacy – We ensure that residents receive timely, accurate information about potential environmental threats and how to respond effectively.
By strengthening emergency preparedness and response efforts, we help safeguard Coney Island’s most vulnerable populations from the impacts of climate change.
03.
Empowering the Community Through Advocacy
CIBP ensures that the voices, concerns, and ideas of Coney Island residents are heard by decision-makers at the local, state, and federal levels. Through public convenings, coalition-building, and advocacy campaigns, we connect residents with policymakers to influence decisions that shape the future of our community.
Public Forums & Community Meetings – We create spaces for residents to engage with experts, officials, and stakeholders on environmental and development issues.
Coalition-Building – We work alongside local organizations, environmental groups, and government agencies to drive collective action and policy changes that protect Coney Island.
Policy Advocacy – We push for legislation and programs that prioritize flood resilience, sustainable development, and environmental justice in Coney Island.
By ensuring that the people most affected by climate change have a seat at the table, we empower our community to be active participants in shaping a more resilient future.
Join us in protecting Coney Island
We all have a role to play in safeguarding Coney Island’s future. Whether you volunteer, donate, or advocate for change, your support makes a difference.