Hudson River Park Trust has landed $5 million in New York State funding to complete the bike lanes and pedestrian paths between Clinton Cove and Riverside Park.
This part of the riverside park, alongside the West Side Highway between W57th and W59th Street, has been a temporary path that has been an unsatisfactory compromise for bikers, runners, and walkers for many years.
Governor Andrew Cuomo announced the funding this afternoon, saying: “In line with the ambitious goals we have set for a greener, cleaner future, we are investing in sustainable infrastructure to support economic growth and encourage the use of emissions-free transportation options. The pedestrian and bicycle access improvements along the busy Route 9A, West Side Highway, corridor will make commutes and recreation more enjoyable for both the local community and thousands of visitors.”
The new section of the path will be compliant with provisions in the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). There was no breakdown of why the two-block build costs were $5 million, but the Governor stressed it was important in connecting the 750-mile Empire State Trail network for hikers, runners, cyclists, and others. The project is funded by the federal Transportation Alternatives Program, administered by the New York State Department of Transportation.
Hudson River Park Board Chair Basil Seggos said: “During the State’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, more New Yorkers than ever before have been looking for opportunities to get outside and enjoy nature. This new pedestrian and bicycle path will improve access to the Hudson River Park for communities on Manhattan’s West Side, and create a new link to the Empire State Trail. Today’s announcement is a significant milestone in the State’s sustained commitment to improving the city’s parks and access to the outdoors statewide.”
This improvement to Hudson River Park will integrate with Clinton Cove Park’s expansion, linking Pier 97 as the park’s northernmost public pier. In recent months, Hudson River Park Trust has also announced plans for a beach at the Gansevoort Peninsula and has taken back the NYPD Tow Pound at Pier 76.
It’s always (well, during “normal” times) chaotic and confusing between pedestrians and cyclists and right of way. Looking forward to the improvements. With that said, at a $5M price tag, wondering if it’s going to paved in gold. That vendor hit the jackpot winning that contract bid.
It is ridiculous that a job to improve pedestrian/bike pavement from 57th to 59th St would cost taxpayers $5 Million!