Wall And Broad

The intersection of Wall Street and Broad Street is one of the most heavily visited and historically important corners in New York City. It’s where the Bill of Rights was first proposed and ratified, and where George Washington took the first oath of office as president of the United States. It’s also the spot that gave rise to the American financial system. 

This corner is marked today by the imposing facade of the New York Stock Exchange and the neoclassical grace of Federal Hall, and is instantly recognizable to people from around the world. Over the years, the Stock Exchange District has formed around this corner, bounded by Pine Street to the north, Beaver Street to the south, William Street to the east and Broadway to the west.

In Winter 2015, the Alliance for Downtown New York began conversations with the NYPD, the NYSE and members of the community about the area surrounding the intersection of Wall Street and Broad Street. The consensus was that there was room for improvement. Overwhelmingly, responses reflected a sentiment that the area had become unsightly and that it was being isolated from the rejuvenation happening to the neighborhood around it. As the area began seeing a number of new investments, it became evident that the time had come for a formal analysis and plan.

Over the course of nine months, the Alliance drafted a plan. “A More Welcoming Wall & Broad: A Vision for Improving the Stock Exchange District” includes achievable recommendations (curbless streets, historical markers, architectural lighting) within an actionable plan to make one of the most heavily visited and historically important corners of New York City secure, welcoming and vibrant.

Incorporating public feedback, as well as guidance from an ad hoc committee made up of local property owners, residents and cultural institutions, the Alliance worked with an urban design team led by Lower Manhattan architects WXY Architecture + Urban Design, with support from Sam Schwartz Engineering, SCAPE and City Activators.

Read the full 2018 plan below.