High Talk About New York's High Line

This past weekend I walked for first time along the newly opened High Line in downtown Manhattan.
For those not familiar with the High Line project, it represents a major achievement of a group of people passionately committed to the cause of renovating the unsightly elevated railroad tracks that stretch from the now-popular Meatpacking District north through the Chelsea district and beyond.

The High Line Project

Open now is the first of three sections, the second portion scheduled for opening in Summer 2010.

The walk is glorious. Planted with flowers and grasses selected both for their hardiness and wild beauty, it celebrates the High Line's origin by keeping railroad ties midst the walkways and plantings. 

Places to sit, even sunbathe around.  And the understated lighting fixtures suggest it must be wonderfully romantic at night.

Although the High Line rises only two floors or so above street level, it provides surprisingly broad views of the Hudson River as well as the neighborhoods that grace each side of the walkway.

The High Line Navigator

Walking along this pedestrian boulevard that is already a gift to the City, I couldn't help but think of all the conversations the High Line will foster. It's a gritty, urban version of a walkway providing a quiet respite from the clamor of the City.  I can imagine suggesting "Let's take a walk on the High Line and talk about that..."

Trust me on this: the High Line is a conversation catalyst.  Come to New York and we'll have a chat...on the High Line.

Comments

[Ajlouny]

I am really enjoying the continuous changes in this city. Especially since it's becoming more and more pedestrian friendly.