Longtime NYC Councilwoman Carol Greitzer Dies at 101

Greitzer was a tireless advocate for Greenwich Village and historic preservation in New York City.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 12:00am

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A serene, nostalgic painting of a historic brownstone building in New York City's Greenwich Village, bathed in warm, golden light and deep shadows, capturing the essence of the neighborhood's character that Greitzer fought to preserve.The passing of Carol Greitzer, a tireless defender of Greenwich Village and champion of historic preservation in New York City, marks the end of an era for the city's politics.NYC Today

Carol Greitzer, a lifelong New Yorker and longtime member of the New York City Council, passed away at the age of 101. Greitzer was known as a fierce defender of Greenwich Village and a champion of historic preservation, women's rights, and LGBTQ+ rights in the city.

Why it matters

Greitzer's passing marks the end of an era for New York City politics. As a City Council member for over three decades, she played a key role in opposing controversial development plans by Robert Moses and fighting to preserve the character of neighborhoods like Greenwich Village. Her advocacy for marginalized communities also left a lasting impact on the city.

The details

During her time on the City Council, Greitzer was instrumental in blocking Robert Moses' plans to build expressways and other large-scale development projects that would have demolished historic neighborhoods. She championed landmark preservation efforts and fought to maintain the unique character of Greenwich Village. Greitzer was also a vocal advocate for women's rights and LGBTQ+ rights, supporting legislation that advanced these causes in New York City.

  • Carol Greitzer served on the New York City Council from 1970 to 2002.
  • Greitzer passed away on April 15, 2026 at the age of 101.

The players

Carol Greitzer

A lifelong New Yorker and longtime member of the New York City Council, Greitzer was known as a tireless defender of Greenwich Village and a champion of historic preservation, women's rights, and LGBTQ+ rights in the city.

Robert Moses

A powerful urban planner in New York City during the mid-20th century, Moses was responsible for numerous large-scale development projects that often involved the demolition of historic neighborhoods.

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What they’re saying

“Carol Greitzer was a force to be reckoned with in New York City politics. She fought tirelessly to protect the character of our neighborhoods and give a voice to marginalized communities.”

— Gale Brewer, Former Manhattan Borough President

“Greitzer's legacy as a champion of historic preservation and social justice will continue to inspire New Yorkers for generations to come.”

— Corey Johnson, Former New York City Council Speaker

The takeaway

Carol Greitzer's passing marks the end of an era for New York City politics, but her impact as a tireless advocate for preserving the character of neighborhoods like Greenwich Village and championing the rights of women and LGBTQ+ individuals will continue to be felt for years to come.