Why a Sidewalk on Summit?

Raise the funds necessary to purchase two subdivided lots from St. Paul’s Episcopal Church and have them permanently protected from development. The total cost is currently estimated at approximately $5.2 million, subject to independent appraisal once the subdivision is complete. If acquired, the parcels will be conserved and stewarded by Greenwich Land Trust (GLT) for the benefit of the Riverside neighborhood and the broader Greenwich community.

These parcels are an important part of Riverside’s character and represent a rare area of open space in a developed neighborhood. Preserving them prevents future residential development and protects local environmental and ecological values. This acquisition allows the community to act now to secure a lasting conservation outcome.

All donations will be restricted exclusively to purchase the two subdivided lots, related acquisition costs, and future land stewardship. Funds may not be redirected for other GLT purposes without donor approval.

A restricted gift is legally designated for a specific purpose. GLT is obligated to use your donation only for the acquisition of these two lots, related acquisition costs, and future land stewardship. If the purchase does not move forward, donors will be contacted regarding the future of their restricted contribution.

No. The land will not be developed for residential or commercial use. GLT’s stewardship will focus on preserving natural features, safety, and ecological health through minimal, thoughtful management.

GLT’s approach emphasizes low-impact stewardship. The property will remain largely natural in character. Any management activities would be modest and designed to protect the land, enhance or improve wildlife habitats, and enhance native plant communities.

Public access decisions are made carefully and in alignment with conservation values and neighborhood context. GLT’s primary objective is the protection of the land. Any future access considerations would be evaluated thoughtfully, with safety, privacy, and stewardship as guiding principles. The land would remain a part of the neighborhood community, as it is currently.

Protecting these lots preserves neighborhood character, green views, and open space, while preventing increased traffic and density associated with development. The land also supports environmental health, including stormwater absorption and habitat protection.

This effort was originated by the Riverside Association and reflects strong neighborhood commitment to conservation, with the support of St. Paul’s School and Church. Community support demonstrates that neighbors value St. Paul’s as an important part of the Riverside community and want to see these parcels protected for the long term. Local participation in raising these needed funds enables GLT to act quickly, responsibly, and in the best interest of the neighborhood.

Yes. Greenwich Land Trust is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. Donors will receive a letter of acknowledgment for their records.

Yes. Gifts may be made in honor or in memory of an individual or family. Please indicate this when making your donation so GLT can acknowledge it appropriately.

Gifts of all sizes are meaningful. Every contribution helps move this important acquisition forward. The full $5.2 million fundraising goal must be met in order to proceed with the purchase.

Absolutely. Collective support from a family foundation, donor-advised funds, appreciated securities, and/or cash contributions can all be utilized to make a significant impact.

Once acquired, GLT will permanently conserve the land, assume responsibility for ongoing stewardship and monitoring, and ensure the property remains protected for generations to come.

We welcome the opportunity to speak with you directly. Martin Garcia, Riverside Association: martin.garcia.jr@gmail.com Andi Harrington Cosby, Greenwich Land Trust: andi@gltrust.org