Some Relaxing New Open Spaces Will Grace Downtown's Streets

As summer heats up, Lower Manhattan’s throngs of workers, visitors and residents will be searching for open spaces to have lunch and soak up some rays.  Happily, they won’t have to look far because open space is increasing in Lower Manhattan.

In 2004, Downtown had 19 parks or open spaces available for public use south of Murray Street. Through this year and the next, seven new or redesigned spaces will come online for public enjoyment—representing an investment of more than $200 million.

This month, I’m looking forward to visiting Burling Slip Playground—a joint effort between the New York City Department of Parks & Recreation and the Rockwell Group. The park will have a maritime theme, consistent with the Seaport area, and will offer many activities for your little bathtub sailors and pirates!

Also in July, the newly designed Delury Square Park is scheduled to open, providing Fulton Street with a 10,000 square-foot respite complete with benches and a small waterfall.

In August, Peter Minuit Plaza is scheduled to open, anchored by the New Amsterdam Plein and Pavilion, which will contain an information kiosk and food concession.  Also in August, sculpture-lovers will find beauty and solace at the newly reconstructed Louise Nevelson Plaza. In September, another renovated Fulton Street respite will be opened—Titanic Park, at the entrance to the South Street Seaport.

Lower Manhattan has never been so green. I hope you will join me in seeking out these new spots for relaxation and recreation.