A 22-block stretch of west Manhattan is about to have a unique new park. The High Line is being created on top of the old elevated railway that runs along the Hudson River from Gansevoort Street to 34th Street. The park has helped to spur private investment, with about 1.5 million square feet under way and another 2.5 million square feet in the planning stages. When everything is finished, there will be some $4 billion in private investment along the park.
The first phase of the park is set to open in the spring of 2009 and will run from 20th street and 10th Avenue to Gansevoort Street. Condominiums, office buildings and hotels are all being constructed or have been along this stretch of the park, which is helping to transform this old, gritty section of the city into a trendy place.
The High Line Building, taking its name from the park, is rising above the High Line and has been designed by Morris Adjmi. It is a 10 story glass office tower that has taken over a former meatpacking plant. Above Washington Street the Standard Hotel is nearing completion. This 18 floor building straddles the park and will have 330 rooms when completed, with a restaurant and rooftop pool.
At the very south end of the Park, a cultural institution will anchor what is being called the High Line district. Renzo Piano’s new building for the Whitney Museum is expected to open in 2011. This unique park is helping to transform this part of the city and will be a property hotspot for years to come.
Useful Resources
