Growth_Gentrification

Over the years, gentrification has had a significant impact on Manhattan Chinatown, with the neighborhood experiencing significant changes and challenges. With its proximity to SoHo, NoLita, and LES, Chinatown has become a desirable location for new developments and investments, leading to rising property values and rents.

As a result, many long-time residents and small businesses have been pushed out, unable to keep up with the increasing costs. All the vendors have noted that their clientele has changed over the years. Rise in rent has directly resulted in wholesalers to relocated to East Williamsburg from their Kenmare and Broome locations. If you walk by today, it is hard to imagine that a produce wholesale used to occupy where a luxurious spa in a prime SoHo location stands today.

While many residents and businesses of Manhattan Chinatown continue to fight for their rights and their place in the neighborhood, many are also not sentimental about the neighborhood's shift. “Times change," one of the Mong wholesalers said matter-of-factly. In fact, change brings opportunity, and it is important to acknowledge that residents of Chinatown are not passive victims of gentrification, but rather have been actively engaging in the process and shaping their community's future.

At the corner of Chrystie and Grand, a fresh fruits and vegetable store closed over the pandemic. Last month, a Chinese seafood restaurant opened in its stead. The community gathered, bringing flower wreathes, confetti and dancing dragons to celebrate the opening and bless the business with longevity.

While it is difficult to imagine Manhattan Chinatown without its produce market, many of the people that support this network entered the business due to the lack of options. When I asked them if their children are to inherit the business, many responded with “Of course not, I’m hoping they’ll go to medical school!”