Greenridge, Staten Island – Neighborhood Guide

Greenridge is situated in the western part of Eltingville, a neighborhood on Staten Island’s South Shore. The area received its present name around 1876 and has undergone significant development over the years, including the construction of the Eltingville Transit Center in the early 2000s.

Initially settled by French Huguenots in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, who sought refuge from religious persecution in France, the area also attracted Dutch and Walloons from southern Belgium. Their influence extended to shaping nearby neighborhoods like Huguenot, which is named after them.

This area is characterized by its residential neighborhoods, shopping centers like the Greenridge Shopping Plaza, and historical significance, including its role during the Revolutionary War and its archaeological relevance. Today, Greenridge continues to see commercial development and serves as a transit hub for many passengers commuting to Manhattan.

Early History of Greenridge, Staten Island

Greenridge, originally known as “Marshland,” was settled by Huguenot settlers and has a rich history dating back to the time of early European colonization. The area was first inhabited by the Raritan Indians, a branch of the Delaware Nation, before European settlers arrived.

The Dutch referred to the area as Kleine Kill, or Little Creek, and the British called it Fresh Kills. The neighborhood received its current name around 1876. Notable historical events include the establishment of a popular restaurant and amusement place in 1921 called Al Deppe’s, which was later closed due to the condemnation of its property for the proposed Richmond Parkway.

During the Revolutionary War, Staten Island, including areas like Greenridge, played a significant role due to its strategic location and its largely Loyalist population. The island was a stronghold for Loyalists—colonists who remained loyal to the British Crown.

This allegiance made Staten Island a critical staging area for British troops. In July 1776, British forces landed on Staten Island as a preliminary step in their invasion of New York, amassing nearly 32,000 troops on the island and on warships off its shores. Staten Island’s Loyalist population warmly greeted the British forces, and the island served as a military staging area, a hospital, and a base of operations for Loyalist regiments throughout the British occupation, which lasted over seven years, longer than any other community in America.

Archaeologically, Staten Island, including areas like Greenridge, is significant due to its rich pre-European and early American history. The island was home to the Lenape people, and numerous archaeological sites have been identified, revealing the island’s use over thousands of years.

One of the earliest locations of human occupation in the United States was discovered on Staten Island, with documented discoveries dating back about 8,000 years ago during the Early Archaic period. This period saw the development of a diverse toolkit used for hunting, woodworking, basket making, and other functions.

The archaeological record from Staten Island provides a rare glimpse into daily life thousands of years ago, including evidence of cooking, tool manufacturing, and a broad-spectrum diet that included marine resources.

Demographics

The demographics of Greenridge have evolved over time. The neighborhood has seen an increase in the foreign-born population, which was 25.6% in 2022. The racial composition as of 2022 was 57.5% white, 11.4% Asian, 8.8% Black, and 18.7% Hispanic. The population density was 8.6 thousand persons per square mile, and the poverty rate was 8.3%.

Attractions

• Greenridge Shopping Plaza, also known as Greenridge Plaza, stands as a prominent destination for shopping and accessing services within the neighborhood.
• Brookfield Park, while not specifically associated with Greenridge, holds historical importance as a significant park in Staten Island. Situated near Greenridge, it adds to the recreational and natural attractions available in the vicinity.

Real Estate

Real estate in Greenridge includes a variety of homes for sale, with prices ranging from the mid-$500,000s to over $800,000 for single-family homes. The neighborhood offers a mix of residential properties, including detached houses and townhomes. Real estate listings show homes with various features, such as multiple bedrooms and bathrooms, and some with garages or backyards.

Education in Greenridge

Residents of Greenridge have access to the New York City public school system, which includes a variety of elementary, middle, and high schools. While there are no schools located directly within Greenridge, the broader Staten Island area offers a range of educational opportunities, from early childhood programs to higher education.

Transportation Options in Greenridge

To get around Greenridge in Staten Island, you can navigate the area using various transportation options. The neighborhood is served by busy roads like Richmond Avenue and Arthur Kill Road, making it accessible by car. However, traffic can be slow during peak hours, so alternative modes of transportation are available.

Residents can utilize the SIR train, which provides a direct connection between St. George and the island’s south shore with stops in Greenridge. Additionally, there is a network of bus routes that cover most neighborhoods in the area. For those preferring public transportation, buses and trains offer convenient ways to travel around Greenridge and beyond.

Shopping and Dining

Shopping and dining in Greenridge, Staten Island have seen significant changes over the years. The Greenridge Plaza shopping complex has recently undergone a major retail shift to accommodate the reported arrival of discount grocer Aldi.

Several shops have relocated to make room for Aldi, including Hair Essentials, which moved to a new location within the plaza. Additionally, the northwest corner of Arthur Kill Road and Richmond Avenue in Greenridge has a history of commercial development.

In terms of dining options, there are various restaurants to explore. Greenridge presents various dining choices such as pizza, Chinese, halal, and Dove Diner, catering to diverse culinary preferences. For a quick meal, the McDonald’s in Greenridge Plaza is a favored option among locals and visitors alike.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, Greenridge, Staten Island, offers a blend of historical significance, diverse demographics, and access to educational opportunities that enrich the fabric of this neighborhood. It also offers a mix of transportation options to suit different preferences. Whether you prefer driving, taking public transportation, or exploring the area’s shopping and dining offerings, Greenridge has something to offer for everyone.