highbridge ANCHOR park phase 2

Location: New York, New York
Client: New York City Department of Parks & Recreation

As part of the Anchor Parks program, NYC Parks is investing $30 million “to bring new life” to Highbridge Park. It was selected for this major investment based on its potential for development, the needs of the large nearby user population and historical underinvestment. Focused investment in the selected anchor parks is intended to achieve a complete capital transformation and revitalization of the public open space to serve the adjacent communities and the residents of New York City. MKW was selected by NYC Parks to lead an interdisciplinary team of consultants to develop the master plan as well as Phase 1 and 2 capital projects.

The intent of the master planning process was to document and develop a comprehensive plan for the development of Highbridge Park that addresses the needs of the local community and fulfills the aspirations for this iconic site to play a key role in New York City’s public open space system. Highbridge Park currently offers significant and varied recreational resources such as playing fields, playgrounds, a pool, comfort stations, unique recreation amenities, striking topography, lush vegetation, and significant historic and cultural resources but lacks connectivity, circulation, and access which is one of the major design goals of the master plan. Phase 1 identifies a project scope that is easily achievable within a relatively short time frame and accomplishes making this stretch of the park more usable with greater access and safety. Phase 1 goals include: reinstating access to a 10-block stretch of the park, pathway improvements and seating, new community gathering spaces, and a restoration of the historic Grand Staircase at Laurel Hill Terrace. Phase 2 responds to community desires for more rest rooms, updated play and recreation facilities and more open space for ball play. The project scope includes the reconstructed Adventure Playground, a new comfort station, a new fitness area in the Sunken Playground and a new synthetic turf practice field north of the Highbridge Recreation Center. Additionally, new lighting along the path from Sunken Playground to the Manhattan side of the High Bridge is part of Phase 2 work as it provides a safe and secure route between the reconstructed playgrounds and the newly-reopened High Bridge.