It may not be a coastline in the most traditional sense, but the city is hoping to provide an official location for Manhattanites to relax and sunbathe during the summer months (as it is now, many opt to soak in rays at public parks). “People want a place to lay down and to take their shirt off, and that’s what they’re gonna have here,” Cricket Day, a designer involved in the project, told the Daily Beast. However, what they won’t have is a place to swim: Though the plans include a place to launch kayaks, swimming won’t be permitted. But worry not, there will be also be a large sports field, picnic tables, and walking paths for people who want to do more than just lounge along the shoreline.
“Gansevoort Peninsula is a true green space for the 21st century, incorporating innovative design and helping to prepare the west side of Manhattan for climate change,” New York City Mayor Eric Adams said in a statement. “Our administration is working to provide open space in every community and expand access to public parks in all five boroughs. The city has invested more than $70 million in this critical project that will help us reach that goal, and we hope New Yorkers enjoy all the wonderful amenities it has to offer.”
