The real it thing in lower Manhattan this summer seems to be the High Line. What was commercial traffic for meat packers et al. between 1934-1980, nothing between 1980 and last year, is now a hip, weed-ridden concrete-heavy park, with a view, stretching from Washington & Gansevoort to 10th & 20th. On top of this, more park is currently being developed.
Having visited said park Sunday night, I must confess I’m sold. You have to be impressed by such clever upcycling and the courage to plant weeds and not orchids. And of course, the echo of history is something else for a train nerd such as myself.
The development from 1934 to present day can be studied through these excellent image galleries. Admission is free, but if one wants member benefits (and to support the development of the park), there are alternatives ranging from $40 to $10,000. At $350, you get a key-ring.
Tags: Manhattan, The High Line, trains
everydaytrash 
Thursday, July 23, 2009 at 11:52 am |
I was so worried the Highline wouldn’t end up being as cool as those first, lovely minimalist sketches that circulated the NYC design blogs a few years ago. Then I worried local land use crankiness would prevent the park from ever opening. Then I worried renovating the last seedy space in the Meatpacking would draw the rooftop pool going set and make the vibe so snooty I wouldn’t want to go up there once it opened. But I have to say, I’ve been three times so far and absolutely love it.
Check out adorable Bill Cunningham on Highline fashion.
And I SO want to see the renegade cabaret!