City and state officials have broken ground on the Manhattan Greenway Harlem River project, a $353 million initiative that will deliver 7 acres of new waterfront parkland and a greenway connection in East Harlem, Manhattan. The project, located between 125th and 132nd Streets along the Harlem River, is led by NYC Parks, NYCEDC, and NYCDOT, with additional support from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. It includes $310 million in city funding and a $43 million grant from the New York State Environmental Bond Act.
Rendering of Harlem River Greenway, via edc.nyc.
The development will feature separate pedestrian and bicycle paths, open lawns, playground equipment, public art, barbecue and picnic areas, and a public restroom at the 127th Street entrance. The project is being managed by NYCEDC on behalf of NYC Parks, with design by Langan and Starr Whitehouse, and construction by Hunter Roberts Construction Group.
In addition to recreational amenities, the project will elevate the shoreline by approximately 2 feet to help mitigate the effects of sea level rise and future storms. Environmental upgrades include the planting of hundreds of trees and thousands of shrubs, along with 2 acres of lawn designed to absorb stormwater and reduce heat impacts in the area. The new greenway segment fills a gap in the Manhattan Waterfront Greenway, supporting the broader goal of a continuous 32.5-mile loop around the island.
Current view at 127th Street, via edc.nyc.
“For decades, the East Harlem community has dreamed of reconnecting to its waterfront, and today we’re breaking ground on a vibrant, accessible greenway that delivers just that,” said NYC Parks Commissioner Iris Rodriguez-Rosa. “This new stretch of the Harlem River Greenway will not only provide beautiful open space and new recreation opportunities, but also strengthen our city’s resiliency for generations to come.”
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It looks beautiful and I hope it is well utilized. I’m just shocked at the roughly $50 million per acre price tag. I should have been a contractor in NYC.
FINALLY!!!!
Finally! I explored that area a few years back when the gates were open and the views are amazing. The waterfront parks to the north and south need urgent attention too.
Doesn’t mention an estimated completion date. Anyone know? I assume it will link up up with the Harlem African Burial Ground?
Much needed, can’t wait to see the finished product