The Woodlawn Cemetery—helping New Yorkers plan for the future
n a city of 8 million people, space is always an issue. The cemetery industry is no exception,” says David Ison, executive director of The Woodlawn Cemetery in the Bronx. We recently spoke with Ison about issues in cemetery planning and how Woodlawn is planning for the future.
“Many cemeteries in NYC are running out of burial space,” he says, “which is why we have developed a strategic plan so we can meet the needs of New York City residents and nearby Westchester County, today and in the future.”
Part of that planning means exploring opportunities to further develop the cemetery’s current burial grounds and investing in new infrastructure. We spoke with Ison about how Woodlawn is helping New Yorkers plan for the future and how the cemetery can provide them with peace of mind when planning final arrangements for themselves or their loved ones.
What are some of the plans Woodlawn is putting in place to meet the future burial needs of New Yorkers?
Our first step is to identify all the undeveloped property within the confines of Woodlawn Cemetery, and secondly, identify ways we can expand our existing structures for additional cremation or mausoleum space.
How does Woodlawn help people plan for a funeral, burial or memorial service?
We’ve developed a booklet called “My Life.” It allows individuals and families to gather the information that they will need when a member passes on — social security number, marriage licenses, the location of discharge papers, assignment of pallbearers — all of the details that the funeral home or cemetery will need and will ask for at the time of death. When properly filled out, this booklet is designed to just be handed over to the funeral home and cemetery. It’s an invaluable resource that saves the family time and makes arrangements move more smoothly. Completing the booklet with family members is also a good way to generate conversation and dialogue about a topic that isn’t easy to speak about, but one that is necessary. We provide these booklets at no charge, as part of our community service. That way, at the time of need, families can celebrate their loved one’s life.
What should people consider if they want to make Woodlawn the final resting place for themselves or a loved one?
The first thing they should do is give us a call, or visit our website, www. thewoodlawncemetery.org. We can schedule a visit so they can discover the different options we have available. Our years of experience in serving families have shown that most people don’t always know what they want until they see it for themselves. When they actually sit down at a no-obligation consultation, look at all the options that are available, take into consideration their personal finances and what the family may or may not want, they are able to make an informed decision about the option that is right for them. When someone passes on, being prepared can make the process much less stressful, and allows families to focus on what’s important. Our patient and caring staff can help you take that first step in learning what the best option is for you and your family when choosing your final resting place.
there pre-payment options for families who want to take the next step in planning ahead?
Our options begin at $500 and go up from there. We work with individuals and families to design programs that will work within their budgets. We have affordable, pre-need payment plans available where everyone qualifies. Woodlawn strives to work hard to accommodate every family; our highest calling is to serve the families of those who rest here first and foremost. What about the people who rest at Woodlawn?
Woodlawn is a non-sectarian cemetery. It is truly a snapshot of New York City as a whole. We have people and famous figures from nearly every faith, heritage, walk of life and discipline.
What else should people know about Woodlawn?
Woodlawn is more than just a cemetery. At Woodlawn, we strive to create a beautiful and serene atmosphere in a tremendously historic setting. We are rated in the top five historical cemeteries by CNN. Throughout the year, more than 10,000 visitors come to pay tribute to their loved ones, historical figures and to attend and participate in programs, tours, and events. Many come to study and view our more than 140 tree varieties in our newly designated Woodlawn Arboretum. In addition, we are conveniently accessible to public transportation and are within a short walk (approximately 30-yards) to the No. 4 subway line, as well as the Metro North Woodlawn station. The Woodlawn security staff (many retired former NYPD) are available to escort visitors to their loved one’s gravesite and return them back. That is part of the concierge service that we offer.
For more information visit www. thewoodlawncemetery.org or call (718) 920-0500