Riverside Park Master Plan

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RIVERSIDE PARK MASTER PLAN City of New York Parks & Recreation Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

Photo by Istock

Fall 2016

INTRODUCTION

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By Commissioner Mitchell J. Silver, FAICP It is clear to anyone who visits that Riverside Park is one of New York City’s finest public spaces. A thoughtfully designed combination of boulevard, scenic landscape, railway, parkway, and shoreline, Riverside Park offers a national model for the creation of vibrant, urban waterfront parks. As we look forward to the future of the jewel of Manhattan’s west side, this new Master Plan, written with intensive community input, sets a vision of strengthened park infrastructure and enhanced access.

Because of its close integration with the tunnels, roads, and stairways that weave through, under, and over the park, Riverside Park is only as strong as these key pieces of transportation infrastructure. That is why the first major project of the Master Plan is a collaboration with NYC Department of Transportation to restore the parks’ centerpiece, the magnificent Rotunda. Following that, we seek to further strengthen the parks’ underpinnings by rebuilding drainage systems and masonry staircases.

The new Master Plan also envisions better accessibility throughout Riverside Park, with extensive ADA compliance, new entrances, and a user-friendly path system for walking, running, biking and exploring nature. In addition, we seek to address accessibility challenges at the shoreline park north of 145th Street, prioritizing people over cars. A major new pedestrian bridge funded by Assembly Member Danny Farrell is already in construction, and will provide access to the largest concentration of projects in this plan, including expanded playground and ballfields, a new comfort station and waterfront picnic grounds.

Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

Make no mistake – this is a big plan with big projects. To minimize the impact of reconstruction on park users, we plan to progress through a series of small capital projects that can be executed annually until we bring the park into excellent condition. We believe that these expenditures will decrease the long-term capital project cost, decrease maintenance cost and improve visitor enjoyment.

In other words, throughout the process, users will continue to enjoy the majority of Riverside Park’s playgrounds and athletic facilities, entrances and landscapes, which are largely in good to excellent condition. These assets were the focus of the last master plan, successfully advanced by the Riverside Park Conservancy, community groups and elected officials over the past 30 years.

Our vision of the park’s future includes improved environmental stewardship, and a commitment to caring and professional maintenance. That would be impossible without the expert partnership of the Riverside Park Conservancy, which has provided best-in-class care and mustering committed volunteers who have restored and maintained landscapes, playgrounds and tennis courts from 72nd street to 155th street.

Finally, I want to offer my gratitude to the many park users, elected officials, community organizations, and NYC Parks experts who helped to form this Master Plan. Thanks to all of you, we can look forward to a stronger, more accessible Riverside Park that serves all New Yorkers.

TABLE of CONTENTS PROJECT GOALS and SUMMARY Vision for Riverside Park.................... 4 Plan Goals............................................ 6 Major Issues & Opportunities............ 13 Capital Project Summary.................... 17

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ASSETS and CRITICAL ISSUES Assets................................................... 25 Critical Issues...................................... 40 • Circulation • Aging population • Recreation and Structures • Infrastructure and Landscape

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SITE ANALYSES and CONCEPTUAL PLANS

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PROJECT DESCRIPTIONS and STANDARDS

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COMMUNITY PRIORITIES Community Postcards from 2035....... 53 Community Workshops....................... 54 Community Goal Summary................. 55 Context.................................................. 59 Walking Distance to Facilities............. 60 Demographics...................................... 63

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DESIGN HISTORY and PARK EVOLUTION

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Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

Project Descriptions.......................... 154 • Rotunda • Marina • Cherry Walk • Mid Park Play Zone • Riverside Drive • North Waterfront • Routes and Places for Seniors Standards............................................

• Signage 165 • Furniture • Lighting

PRIOR PLANS

7 Importance of Design History........... 65 Park Designers and Intentions.......... 66 Landscape Restoration Framework 67 Early Site History................................ 68 Olmsted Plan...................................... 69 Expansion to 155th Street................ 83 City Beautiful Monuments................ 86 Proposals to Cover the Railroad...... 87 Robert Moses Era Expansion.......... 89 1938 to 1984 Era of Decline................ 96 1984 Plan and Restoration................. 97

Site Analyses & Concept Plans.................................... 106 Nature and Landscape Plan.............. 123 Circulation Plan................................. 146

CREDITS

Take Me to the River........................... 170 North Waterfront Plan......................... 171

VISION

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Riverside Park will be a national model for the creation of vibrant, urban waterfront parks, featuring the integration of boulevard, scenic landscape, railway, parkway and shoreline.

It will be known for: Caring and professional maintenance

Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

Support for community initiatives and volunteerism

Welcoming, accessible entrances and paths for walking, running, biking and exploring nature with delight and without conflict

Innovative recreational facilities that meet the needs of every neighborhood and age

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PLAN & PROJECT GOALS

Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

PROJECT GOALS How can we work together to make Riverside Park great?

Why do we need a Master Plan?

This plan will guide the next phase of efforts to restore and maintain Riverside Park’s scenic landmark landscapes, and to adapt the park to meet the needs of every neighborhood and age group. It addresses the major problems of flooding, bicycle / pedestrian conflict, failed drainage, deteriorated structures and woodland health.

This plan builds on the Master Plan completed by NYC Parks in 1984 and implemented over the past 30 years in partnership with the Riverside Park Conservancy.

How was it developed?

NYC Parks worked with park user groups, neighborhood residents, the Parks Committies of Community Districts 7 and 9, and the Riverside Park Conservancy to develop a shared understanding of the park’s problems, changing community demographics and needs.

How will we work together to make it happen?

NYC Parks will work with Community Boards 7 and 9, the Riverside Park Conservancy, nonprofit partners and elected officials to identify funding from New York City expense and capital budgets, as well as private funding sources to implement this plan.

Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

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ORGANIZATIONAL GOALS How do the Riverside Park Conservancy and NYC Parks work together?

NEW YORK CITY PARKS VISION AND MISSION Create and sustain thriving parks and public spaces.

PLAN resilient and sustainable parks, public spaces and recreational amenities.

BUILD a park system for present and future generations.

CARE for parks and public spaces.

STRATEGIC PRIORITIES Equity All New Yorkers should have a fair share of their city’s resources and a voice in how they’re used. We’re including local communities in the decisions that affect their neighborhoods, and spreading our programs and projects across the city.

Innovation & Technology Using information gathered by our agency, we can identify problems facing NYC’s public spaces and find creative, effective solutions to these issues.

Caring for Parks We’re making sure that your parks and recreational spaces are cared for, not merely maintained. To ensure that this happens, we’re expanding our staff, standardizing our design work, and building transparency.

Planning & Placemaking Our parks are the settings for your experiences and memories. We want to plan your parks and recreational spaces with imagination and awareness of how they impact their broader neighborhoods.

Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

PARK RESTORATION

BUILT ENVIRONMENT

• Restore civic infrastructure.

• Increase the health, ecological and hydrological functions of parks.

• Make parks easier to maintain.

• Develop sources of operating funds.

• Support efforts of community groups and individuals to improve parks.

• Adapt parks to climate change.

• Accommodate the outdoor recreational needs for all ages and abilities of park neighbors.

• The park’s environment should make visitors feel the park is well cared for.

• Infrastructure (e.g., lighting, storm drains, plumbing, etc.) should be in good repair and adequate for conditions.

• Built environment components (e.g., bathrooms, ballfields, stairs, pathways, playgrounds, etc.) should be good repair and proper working order.

• Buildings should be in good repair and occupied by park uses.

• Bathrooms should be clean and well maintained.

• Lighting should be working and adequate.

• Signage should be adequate for orientation, knowledge of rules, and events.

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ORGANIZATIONAL GOALS How do the Riverside Park Conservancy and NYC Parks work together?

LANDSCAPE AND ENVIRONMENT

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT & ADVOCACY

• The Park should make visitors feel the Park is watched and cared for.

• Plantings and landscapes should be attractive to both the casual and the knowledgeable observer. They should be healthy, beautiful and appropriate for the area and era.

• Plantings should attract desirable wildlife.

• The Park should be protected and maintained so it is usable year round.

• All 400+ acres should be maintained at the same standard, to serve all communities equally.

• Soil should not be bare or flooded.

• Invasive species should be removed or contained.

• Trees should be inspected, treated and pruned on a regular cycle, and as needed for safety, health, shape, stability and sight lines.

• Lawns should be lush, well mowed and maintained.

• Rodents should be under control.

• Park should be clean and garbage cans emptied.

• Snow and ice should be removed quickly from Park and greenway paths.

• Maintain a large, active and informed volunteer corps throughout the Park and across the full spectrum of user groups.

• Ensure volunteers are fully supported and equipped.

• Provide programs that will appeal to diverse audiences (age, interest, background.) Events should draw visitors from all communities and draw people to visit sites throughout the park.

• Promote beneficial park use (athletics, exercise, social gathering, relaxation, etc.)

• Build awareness of the Parks’ benefits, needs, and the importance of stewardship.

• Ensure adequate facilities (type, quantity, condition) e.g., bathrooms, playgrounds, sports facilities.

• Quickly and effectively inform park users of important developments such as storms.

Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

RIVERSIDE PARK CONSERVANCY MISSION Restore, maintain and improve Riverside Park in partnership with the City of New York for the enjoyment and benefit of all New Yorkers.

The Conservancy supports the preservation of the park’s historic landscape, structures, and monuments, engages the community in active stewardship of the Park, and provides a wide range of programs.

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PROGRESS and MAJOR CHALLENGES What has been accomplished and how should we focus our future efforts?

PROGRESS

After a 30-year effort, Riverside Park is very much improved and is a vital center of community activity. Almost all of its athletic fields and playgrounds have been restored; the marina and Rotunda and athletic field complexes have been activated. The bicycle network has been stitched together with major connections along the Hudson River.

The maintenance workforce has been effectively organized, and the park inspection ratings frequently put Riverside Park at the top of the citywide rating program.

The Riverside Park Conservancy is extremely effective for its size, and its impact on the Park is well focused on horticulture care, volunteer support, strategic fundraising and advocacy for the capital restoration program. In 2016 private funding paid for $3.1 million in park operation, restoration and program expenses. The in-house landscape architect has expeditiously and expertly coordinated the design and construction of much of the park’s fabric.

Yet despite this progress, the park faces some major challenges. The deterioration of forest areas, drainage systems, pavements, and masonry structures have exceeded the ability of the current maintenance force. There are 19 City funded workers in the park in 2016, which is half of the 2002 work force.

Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

MAJOR CHALLENGES Circulation The success of the bike route created hazardous conditions for bikers and pedestrians.

• Bicycle and pedestrian conflict occurs frequently, especially on the waterfront esplanade.

• It is important to create a dedicated route for bikes.

Neighborhood populations are aging • There is a need for trip-free pathways and improved ADA access.

Recreation and Structures The historic Rotunda at W79th Street is highly deteriorated • The employee work areas at the Rotunda are in poor condition.

• The Rotunda and esplanade are not ADA compliant.

• The Rotunda is subject to flooding.

• There is now an active project at the City Department of Transportation that will restore the structure. Funding will be needed for the fountain and public access areas.

Park neighborhoods north of West 105th Street are inadequately served by playgrounds and restrooms.

Infrastructure and Landscape

Riverside Drive retaining walls, stairs and granite on the 1937 park and parkway structures, and river bulkheads require inspection, stone resetting and repointing.

Portions of the park and the Henry Hudson Parkway are within the 100-year flood plain and need to be adapted to incrase resiliency.

The park-wide deterioration of drainage systems, pavements and masonry structures affect the usability of the park and create an appearance of disrepair.

Forests, trees and plants throughout the park need improved care.

• The horticulture staff of the park is inadequate for the size of the park.

• There is a need for more trained staff.

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PRIORITIES What are the priorities of the Master Plan?

PRIORITIES Circulation Modify the circulation system to better accommodate safe and enjoyable use of the park by people of all abilities, including bicyclists, pedestrians, and senior citizens.

Recreation and Structures Restore important structures and infrastructure.

Provide recreational amenities and comfort stations in underserved areas.

Infrastructure and Landscape The park needs increased funding annually for “state-of-goodrepair” contracts to expeditiously restore the park’s walls, steps, paths, fences, drainage systems, comfort stations and playgrounds.

• This will cost less than rebuilding failed structures.

• Correct hazardous conditions and improve the visitor experience.

• Modify structures and utility systems to prevent flood damage.

The park needs additional dollars annually for landscape and natural area restoration and care.

Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

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MAJOR PROJECTS What is in the plan for you?

Restored Riverside Drive and associated walkways

Restored Paths through landscapes that

change with the seasons

Woodlands managed for health, habitat and ecology

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River access and kayak storage Waterfront Playground

with ballfields, soccerfield and picnic grove at W151st Street

Innovative Playscape

at W109th Street near the skate park

Improved Drainage and healthier lawns Skate Park with restrooms at W108th Street Signage system for orientation and Soldiers and Sailors Monument information

Marina expanded and dredged New Bicycle paths designed for the joy

of riding and separation from pedestrians with connections to Riverside Drive at W72nd, W79th, W95th, W97th, W111th, W125th, W138th and W148th Streets.

Cherry Walk illuminated, widened,

strengthened and protected from cars

New Restrooms for the W97th Street

tennis courts, the middle of the park at W108th Street, Harlem Piers, the community at W138th Street and the North Waterfront at W148th Street Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

restored with lighting

Restored turret and cupola with cafe at W155th Street

Restored Rotunda and Fountain

NYC PARKS STRATEGIC PRIORITIES How does this plan advance NYC Parks’ Strategic Priorities?

STRATEGIC PRIORITIES Equally distribute resources and programming that will meet the needs of current and future generations.

Every neighborhood has opportunities for physical activity within walking distance.

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158th St. Se PE para DE tion ST of RI AN S

Eliminate borders and barriers that inhibit use of the park by people of all ages and abilities.

PLAY and PICNIC GROUNDS

an

d

BI

KE

Engage the complete range of park users.

MidPark PLAY ZONE

Create new experiences and memories for users.

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Seating and activity areas for Seniors near Riverside Drive in neighborhoods where they are concentrated

125th St.

Activity areas for adolescents and teens

ROTUNDA and MARINA

96th St. 87 76

72nd St. Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

ADA compliant access to the whole park

MAJOR ISSUES and OPPORTUNITIES COMMUNITY NEEDS • Seating and activities for seniors • Comfort stations open late and year round

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The Marina needs to be dredged and D expanded in order to provide the best service to the public.

PIER I

D B

RIVERSIDE PARK SOUTH

PLAY AREA

VOLLEYBALL

Restore the Rotunda, Large of the park, shown by fountainportions and cafe thespace. blue line on the map, are within costs:year $XX theTotal 100 floodplain. Underground utilities, water systems and structures All estimates in 2016 aredollars vulnerable to damage. Plantings intolerant of saltwater are vulnerable.

Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

Eleanor Roosevelt Monument

B

Bicycle / pedestrian accidents occur frequently on the waterfront esplanade. H

Areas of conflict are shown with red hatching on the map. W72nd Street, next to the river, is the most problematic area.

W 82 ST

W 81 ST

W 80 ST

W 79 ST

W 78 ST

W 77 ST

W 76 ST

W 75 ST

W 74 ST

W 72 ST

W 71 ST

W70th St

W59th St A Flooding Rotunda Restoration A

Hamilton Fountain

M PL W 70 ST

W 64 ST

FREEDOM PL S

BASKETBALL

FREEDO W 66 ST

W 61 ST

Prepared by Planning Division, August 2015

W 63 ST

W 62 ST

200 Feet

±

W 58 ST

100

BLVD

RIVER RUN PLAYGROUND

DOG RUN

W 71 ST

SIDE

R RIVE

DOG RUN

Bicycle / Pedestrian Conflict

NEUFELD PLAYGROUND

PLAYGROUND

PLAY AREA

Trees in need of Management

0

Warsaw Ghetto Monument

SPORTS FIELD

W 69 ST

2020 100-Year Floodplain

C

SOCCER

BASKETBALL COURTS

W 67 ST

SITE ANALYSIS

BASKETBALL COURTS

A

W 59 ST

Riverside Park

SOFTBALL

CLASSIC PLAYGROUND

DOG RUN

W 68 ST

JOE DIMAGGIO HWY

SOCCER FIELD/TRACK

SOFTBALL

SOCCER FIELD

W 73 ST

KAYAK LAUNCH

W82nd St C

The Rotunda, the centerpiece of the park, is highly deteriorated and its continued use threatened.

MAJOR ISSUES and OPPORTUNITIES

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COMMUNITY NEEDS • Volunteer house for tool storage • Seating and activities for seniors • Restrooms to serve the tennis courts at W97th Street

TENNIS

E

VOLLEYBALL

F

HIPPO PLAYGROUND

IDE

R ED SID ER Monument RIV Joan of Arc Monument

DR

S ER

RIV

E

DOG RUN

Firefighter’s Memorial

TOT LOT 105

E DR

RIVERSIDE DR

SID IVER

Franz Sigel Monument

and Restoration granite cladding on Rotunda E Stairs A the 1937 structures are failing.

Restore the Rotunda, fountain and cafe space.

The Riverside Drive retaining walls, Total costs: $XX stairs and granite cladding on the 1937 structures require inspection, stone All estimates in 2016 dollars resetting and repointing.

Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

F

W 105 ST

W 104 ST

W 103 ST

W 102 ST

155

W104th St

W94th St Storm drainage inside the park is broken or inadequate. Paths H require repaving.

W 101 ST

W 100 ST

W 99 ST

W 98 ST

W 97 ST

W 96 ST

W 95 ST

W 94 ST

W 93 ST

W 92 ST

W 91 ST

W 90 ST

W 89 ST

W 88 ST

W 87 ST

W 86 ST

W 84 ST

W 83 ST

W 85 ST

R

W82nd St

VOLLEYBALL

F

DINOSAUR PLAYGROUND

RUN PLAYGROUND

W 82 ST

SOCCER

E

DOG RUN Soldiers and Sailors Monument

SOFTBALL

SOFTBALL

101 STREET SOCCER FIELD BASKETBALL

W 106 ST

E

Warsaw Ghetto Monument

A

G

Riverside Drive pedestrian zone is in failing condition.

W96th to W113th and W116th to W125th have deteriorated pavements, collapsed catch basins, or sewers.

Walls and stairs need stone resetting and pointing.

MAJOR ISSUES and OPPORTUNITIES

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COMMUNITY NEEDS • Children’s playground • Comfort stations on the middle level and skate park

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improvement, and ADA access needs to be enhanced.

Restore the Rotunda, fountain and cafe space.

Total costs: $XX

The neighborhood needs a playground, activities for adolescents and restrooms.

ST CLAIRE PL

ST

Japanese Lantern SAKURA PARK ButterField Monument

CLAREMONT AV

W117th St I

Cherry Walk is too narrow and dark.

H

Cherry Walk is overcrowded with bikes and pedestrians. The route is not lit or adequately protected by the low guardrail. Glare from car headlights in the southbound lane blinds bicyclists.

W 131 ST

RIVER

park entrance needs Rotunda Restoration H The A

Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

125

RIVERSIDE DR

S

Tilden Monument

W106th St

All estimates in 2016 dollars

RIVERSIDE DR E

W 130 ST

W ST 111 ST W 111

CATHEDRAL PKWY

RIVERSIDE DR RIVERSIDE DR

R IDE D

W

WY

RAL PK

CATHED

G

TOT LOT 116

TIEMANN PL

RIVERSIDE DR

CLAREMONT PLAYGROUND

General Ulysses S. Grant National Memorial

W 129 ST

age

e drain inoperativ te and Kossuth Monument

lo This area f

W

Women’s Health Protective Association

adequa ods due in

W 109 ST

W 108 ST

W 107 ST

by wheelch TOT LOT 112 112 Tot Lot

G

RIVERSIDE DR

IDE DR

RIVERS

W 122 ST

This po

air users.

F

W 120 ST

t accessible

park is no rtion of the TOTTot LOTLot 110110

Sigel Monument

and

W 119 ST

H

n, silted up

due erosio

TENNIS

W 116 ST

a floods This flat are

The Amiable Child Monument

ge

e draina inoperativ

W 113 STW 113 ST

OG RUN

E

E

BASKETBALL

HANDBALL

W 115 ST

SOCCER

Handball

W 112WST 112 ST

LLEYBALL

SKATE PARK

W 114 ST

SOFTBALL

SOFTBALL

E

J

Basketball Basketball

Handball

LA SALLE ST

Basketball

WEST HARLEM PARK PIERS

W127th St Forested areas are in poor ecological health and unmanaged Improved maintenance is required for Riverside’s forests to offer ecological health, habitat and beauty.

J

MAJOR ISSUES and OPPORTUNITIES COMMUNITY NEEDS • Dog Run • Restroom at 138th • Restrooms at the river level • Soccer / football field • Activities for adolescents • Senior citizen activities and park access

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M The pedestrian bridge in construction at W151st Street will make it easy for the neighborhood to reach the waterfront.

D.O.S. PIER (CLOSED) WEST HARLEM PARK PIERS

RIVERBANK STATE PARK

K

T

PKWY

W 134 ST

RI

VOLLEYBALL SOFTBALL

RS

ID

W127th St Kayak launch and K pedestrian crosswalks create a conflict with bikes.

The mostly unmarked bicycle path frequently intersects with pedestrian crossings. Additional collisions occur due to the nearby kayak dock gate and bicycle racks.

Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

W143th St L

W 153 ST

W 152 ST

W 151 ST

W 150 ST

Ralph Ellison Monument

W 149 ST

W 148 ST

W 147 ST

W 146 ST

PLAYGROUND W 145 ST

W 144 ST

RIVERSIDE DR

W 143 ST

W 142 ST

W 141 ST

W 140 ST

W 139 ST

W 138 ST

200 Feet

Prepared by Planning Division, August 2015

W 137 ST

100

Trinity Church Cemetery

W 136 ST

0

±

W 131 ST

Bicycle / Pedestrian Conflict

M

PLAYGROUND

W 135 ST

Trees in need of Management

H

SOCCER SOCCERFIELD FIELD

COMMUNITY GARDEN

DR

W 133 ST

W 132 ST

SITE ANALYSIS

BASKETBALL

12 AV

Riverside Park

2020 100-Year Floodplain

SOFTBALL

HE NR HE YYHU NR DS HU ON DS ONPK WY PK WY

VE

E

A

PLAYGROUND

HENRY HUDSON PKWY

W 135 ST

HENRY HUDSON

L

WW 141 545 STS

W 155 ST

KAYAK LAUNCH

W155th St

The playground, comfort station and landscapes at W148th Street are in poor condition.

The north waterfront was developed at a lower standard of landscape. It includes parking lots for a marina that was never constructed.

The recreational areas and comfort station need major improvements. Additionally, these amenities need to be elevated for flood protection.

CAPITAL PROJECT SUMMARY What are the major projects?

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PIER I

B

KAYAK LAUNCH

RIVERSIDE PARK SOUTH

JOE DIMAGGIO HWY

SOCCER FIELD/TRACK

SOFTBALL

SOCCER FIELD

D

A

SOFTBALL

CLASSIC PLAYGROUND

SOCCER DOG RUN

BASKETBALL COURTS

BASKETBALL COURTS

PLAY AREA

VOLLEYBALL

Warsaw Ghetto Monument

SPORTS FIELD

W 69 ST

W 68 ST

W 67 ST

BASKETBALL

Hamilton Fountain

Eleanor Roosevelt Monument

M PL

Restore the Rotunda, fountain and cafe space.

Convert steps to ramps and restore bathrooms.

Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

B

W82nd St

Dredge, Expand & Strengthen the Marina

Dredge, expand, and strengthen Marina.

W 82 ST

W 81 ST

W 80 ST

W 79 ST

W 78 ST

W 77 ST

W 76 ST

W 75 ST

W 74 ST

W 73 ST

W 72 ST

W 71 ST

70th

Restore the Rotunda

RIVER RUN PLAYGROUND

DOG RUN

FREEDO

W 70 ST

FREEDOM PL S

W59th St

A

RIVE

W 66 ST

±

Bike Lane

Prepared by Parklands and Planning Division, February 2016

W 64 ST

Shared Markings

W 63 ST

W 62 ST

Bike Route (Existing) Stairs Bike Route (On Street - Suggested)

VD E BL

RSID

DOG RUN

W 61 ST

W 58 ST

W 59 ST

Bike Route (Proposed)

NEUFELD PLAYGROUND

PLAYGROUND

PLAY AREA

W 71 ST

Riverside Park

CAPITAL PROJECT SUMMARY

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D

E TENNIS VOLLEYBALL

VOLLEYBALL

SOCCER

DOG RUN

Warsaw Ghetto Monument

C

DOG RUN

Soldiers and Sailors Monument

HIPPO PLAYGROUND DINOSAUR PLAYGROUND

Firefighter’s Memorial

Soldiers’ & Sailors’ Monument

Restore and light the Sailors’ and Soldiers’ Monument.

Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

D

Construct New Bike Route

To resolve the bicycle and pedestrian conflict throughout the park, develop a separate, scenic bike route.

RIVERSIDE DR

E

W 104 ST

W 103 ST

W 102 ST

W 101 ST

Franz Sigel Monument

W 99 ST

W 98 ST

W94th St

W 97 ST

W 96 ST

W 95 ST

W 94 ST

W 93 ST

W 92 ST

W 91 ST

W 90 ST

W 89 ST

W 88 ST

W 87 ST

W 86 ST

W 85 ST

C

W 84 ST

W 83 ST

W82nd St

TOT LOT 105

DR

W 100 ST

IDE

RS RIVE

R

W 106 ST

R ED SID ER JoanofofArc ArcMonument Monument RIV Joan

R

ED

SID

R IVE

W 105 ST

RUN PLAYGROUND

W 82 ST

SOFTBALL

SOFTBALL

101 STREET SOCCER FIELD BASKETBALL

106th

Reconstruct Cherry Walk

Widen the path to separate bikes and pedestrians.

Raise elevation to prevent flooding. Install lighting and vehicle barrier.

CAPITAL PROJECT SUMMARY

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WEST HARLEM PARK PIERS

E Basketball

ALL

H

SOFTBALL

SOFTBALL

Basketball Basketball

Handball

SKATE PARK

Handball

SOCCER

BASKETBALL

The Amiable Child Monument

HANDBALL

TENNIS IDE DR

RIVERS

W

F

Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

ST

W111th St Entrance

Create a new ADA accessible entrance at W111th Street.

LA SALLE ST

H

Mid-Park Play Zone

Construct destination play area and comfort station.

W 131 ST

W 130 ST

TIEMANN PL

W 122 ST

W 120 ST

W 119 ST

W 116 ST

CLAREMONT AV

117th

G

Japanese Lantern SAKURA PARK ButterField Monument

W

125

RIVERSIDE DR

W 115 ST

RIVER

W 114 ST

W ST 111 ST W 111

Restore Riverside Drive pedestrian walkways.

RIVERSIDE DR E

RIVERSIDE DR

S

Tilden Monument

Riverside Drive Pedestrian Zone

General Ulysses S. Grant National Memorial

F

R IDE D

W 113 STW 113 ST

Y

L PKW

RA CATHED

CATHEDRAL PKWY

W 109 ST

W 108 ST

W 107 ST

106th

RSID NATURE ANDRIVLEANDSCAPE E DR

Kossuth Monument

W 112WST 112 ST

RIVERSIDE DR

RIVERSIDE DR

onument

TOT LOT 116

W 129 ST

Tot Lot 112

TOTTot LOTLot 110110

CLAREMONT PLAYGROUND

Women’s Health Protective Association

G TOT LOT 112

ST CLAIRE PL

UN

125th

CAPITAL PROJECT SUMMARY

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D.O.S. PIER (CLOSED)

EST HARLEM PARK PIERS

RIVERBANK STATE PARK KAYAK LAUNCH

W W

VOLLEYBALL SOFTBALL

I

143rd

Restore and Adapt Historic Structures

Restore historic structures on Riverside Drive. Construct a comfort station in the structure at W138th Street. At W154th Street, restore the structure and include a cafe space.

Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

W 152 ST

W 147 ST

W 146 ST

W 145 ST

W 144 ST

W 143 ST

W 142 ST

W 141 ST

W 140 ST

W 139 ST

W 138 ST

W 137 ST

W 136 ST

Ralph Ellison Monument

PLAYGROUND

W 151 ST

F

RIVERSIDE DR

Trinity Church Cemetery W 153 ST

PLAYGROUND

W 155 ST

I W 135 ST

W 131 ST

SOCCER FIELD FIELD SOCCER

COMMUNITY GARDEN

DR

W 150 ST

ID

W 149 ST

RS

125th I

BASKETBALL

12 AV

VE

E

SOFTBALL

HENR NRY HE Y HU HUDS DSON ON PK PKWY WY

W 133 ST

W 134 ST

RI

W 132 ST

PLAYGROUND

HENRY HUDSON PKWY

W 148 ST

PKWY

W 135 ST

HENRY HUDSON

J

1144 55 S STT

155th J

North Waterfront

Construct a destination playground with water play, and elevate it above flood zone. Restore the comfort station and improve the landscape beauty and picnic area.

59th to 96th Streets

96th to 125th Streets

125th to 158th Streets

Create a dedicated bike path just west of Parkway W72nd - W83rd Streets.

Create a dedicated bike path just west of Parkway W93rd - W99th Streets.

Create a dedicated bike path between fields and highway W145th-W155th Streets.

Construct new path for bike access from Riverside Drive to tunnel at W72nd Street.

Stripe bicycle path from Riverside Drive at W102nd Street to the tunnel at W100th Street.

Improve bike path striping and lighting under elevated highway at W135th Street.

Extend the stairs at W72nd St with an archway to allow reconfigured bikeway to pass under. Reconfigure the bikeway to pass between the dog run and the softball field.

Widen and raise bike and pedestrian paths on Cherry Walk, improve highway barrier and lighting.

Widen path west of Cherry Tree Grove and reconfigure benches for bike and pedestrian separation W92nd to W95th Streets.

Widen path west of Dinosaur playground and reconfigure benches for bike and pedestrian separation W96th to W99th Street.

Convert ramp at W72nd Street to increase ADA slope. Restore pavement on ramp, provide railings, access.

New pedestrian entrance and ramp at W111th Street.

Convert southern steps to a ramp at the W78th street tunnel. Convert Rotunda steps to ramps on both sides.

Convert steps to ramps at 111 th Street inside park and on Tilden Island.

Restore Riverside Drive pedestrian zone W91st-W95th Streets.

Restore Riverside Drive pedestrian zone W95thW113th, W116th-W119th, W119th-W125th Streets.

Restore Riverside Drive pedestrian zone W148thW153rd Streets.

PROPOSED CITY DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTAITION PROJECTS

CAPITAL PROJECT SUMMARY What are the major projects that are required to separate pedestrians and bicycles and to make the entire park more accessible?

CIRCULATION

Widen the W92nd Street tunnel sidewalk and stripe it for bike / pedestrian separation.

Widen the W100th Street tunnel sidewalk and stripe it for bike / pedestrian separation.

Improve and light the pedestrian tunnel at W158th Street.

Remove Parkway exit at W95th Street, provide two lanes of exit at W96th Street.

Reconstruct Riverside Drive, pavements, medians and drainage structures W95th to W119th Street.

Remove small diameter auto ramps at W79th Street.

Provide signalized intersection for pedestrians.

Reconstruct Henry Hudson Parkway, pavements, guardrails, medians, lighting and drainage structures W95 to W125th Street. Raise it where it is prone to flooding.

KEY

IN PROGRESS

BIKE AND PEDESTRIAN SEPARATION

PERIMETER, ENTRANCES AND WHEELCHAIR ACCESS

regrade pavement for proper drainage.

Complete the tunnel for the Joe DiMaggio highway between W72nd Street and W59th Street.

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PRIORITY PROJECT

Pedestrian bridge over Henry Hudson Parkway at W151st Street.

21

CAPITAL PROJECT SUMMARY What are the projects required to adapt the park to meet current and future recreational needs and to protect the park’s treasured structures?

RECREATION AND STRUCTURES

MEMORABLE PLACES

RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE NEEDS

59th to 96th Streets

96th to 125th Streets

125th to 158th Streets

Restoration of the Rotunda ($70M in CDOT funds budgeted for FY21)

Restore Women's Health Protective Association monument, entrance and hillside landscape

Restore W152nd street turret, arcade and hillside landscape

Restore Soldiers and Sailors Monument

Improve Grants Tomb landscape and bluestone pavement

Restore W138th Street structure, with a comfort station and storage space to serve the community garden.

Restore Serpentine Promenade landscape and overlook at W89th Street

Install feature landscapes, drainage improvements, jogging path and train tunnel grate platforms W100th to W110th Streets

Improve Riverside Drive Landscape and views of the Hudson

Unique destination play area at W109th Street on the Skate Park level

Convert W148th Parking lots to unique destination playground. Refurbish and light parking under elevated highway at W155th Street

Expand Skate Park

Restore ballfield and reconfigure to accommodate new bike route on east side at W145th Street

New comfort station at W97th Street tennis courts

Restore Skate park comfort station, field house, stairs and terrace

Restore comfort station at W148th Street.

Adult exercise equipment, comfort station and PEP office at Classic playground

Neighborhood fitness center, comfort station at W102nd St.

Adult exercise equipment and new sports fields at W148th St

Restore Courts at W102nd Street for Summer camp Senior Citizen activity and sitting areas around W75th Street near Riverside Drive

Senior citizen activity and sitting areas

Senior Citizen activity and sitting areas

Enlarge Sakura Park tot lot, restore granite stairs and improve Sakura Park Restore W87th street comfort station and field house, adapt as neighborhood garden and volunteer center

Restore Dinosaur playground comfort station and field house

Permanent Kayak storage in W72nd street area

Move kayak ramp entrance at W130th street.

Construct storage.

Revenue Generating Park Amenity

Marina expansion and dredging

Café on turret roof overlooking the Hudson at W152nd Street on Riverside Drive.

KEY

IN PROGRESS

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PRIORITY PROJECT

22

INFRASTRUCTURE and LANDSCAPE What is the strategy for restoring infrastructure and landscape?

59th to 96th Streets

96th to 125th Streets

125th to 158th Streets

Critical Park Operations Needs

Park Maintenance facility with secure storage for vehicles and materials during Rotunda Restoration

Climate change and flooding

Modification of utilities and irrigation systems to withstand flooding

Modification of utilities to withstand flooding

Modification of utilities to withstand flooding

Restoration of stairs, walls, paths, comfort stations and playgrounds throughout the park

Decrease capital funding requirements and improve park appearance by before deterioration is advanced, and by coordinating the contracts with in-house landscape restoration.

INFRASTRUCTURE

Parks Capital Requirements Contract for annual repaving, storm drainage, fence and general construction contract

$600,000

Parks Capital Requirements Contract for annual comfort station and playground reconstruction contract

$200,000

Parks Capital Requirements Contract for annual masonry resetting and pointing

$200,000 Total

$1,000,000

PRIORITY PROJECT

KEY

NATURE and LANDSCAPE Additional staff required above 2016 level 59th to 96th Streets Systemically Systematically restore andand restore care CARE for for landscape and landscape natural and areas. natural Professional areas. maintenance Professional of maintenance the entire park. of the entire

park, coterminus with Park rating zones.

Zone Gardeners existing Turf Crew existing Supervision existing Forester existing

8 3 2 1

96th to 125th 125th to 158th Streets Streets 9 4 2 1 4 2 1 0

7 3 2

Additional Annual Cost

Conservancy Annual Cost

$1,162 $506 $301 $118 $260 $110 $80 $0 $1,803 $400

Supplies and equipment

$734 $80

existing Annual pruning and tree care

$150

existing

$550 Total

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$2,353

$75 Note: All$155 costs in FY16 dollars. $889

24

ASSETS and CRITICAL ISSUES Identify the park’s assets to enhance, and issues to address.

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ASSETS What distinguishes Riverside Park?

Riverside Drive is a masterwork by Frederick Law Olmsted, considered one of the most beautiful residential boulevards in the world.

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ASSETS

The elm trees that line Riverside Drive are an irreplaceable treasure, significant for their age, size and number.

ASSETS

The elms have been cared for since 1980 by non-profit partners and foundation supporters; without this support they would all been lost to Dutch Elm disease.

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ASSETS Riverside Drive is punctuated by artistic monuments to City, national, and international heros and the virtues they represent.

The Soldiers’ and Sailors’ monument, President Grant’s Tomb, the Warsaw Ghetto Memorial, and the Firemen’s Memorial are the venues for significant annual ceremonies.

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ASSETS Engineer F. Stewart Williamson designed the sinuous expansion of Riverside Drive and elaborate Beaux Arts granite structures.

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ASSETS The expansion designed by Gilmore D. Clarke, Michael Rapuano and Clinton Loyd in 1935 is an unparalleled feat of landscape architecture.

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ASSETS Ballfields and playgrounds are integrated into the topography with terraces and structures reminiscent of Renaissance villas.

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ASSETS The Rotunda is the “Bethesda Terrace of Riverside Park,” an arcaded cloister and monumental fountain, intended to serve as New York City’s front door to the Hudson River.

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ASSETS Thomas Balsley, the winner of the 2015 ASLA design award, designed the contemporary Riverside Park South.

Portions of a tunnel to sink the elevated highway have already been constructed.

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32

ASSETS

33

The W79th Street Boat Basin was designed to welcome the yachts of the world.

Today it is the only reasonably priced public marina on the Hudson River.

It provides dockage for New Yorkers as well as visitors from around the world.

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ASSETS Riverside Park’s four mile long shoreline provides many landscapes and natural settings for experiencing the river and sunsets.

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ASSETS The Riverside Park Conservancy’s support for critical programs and projects has catalyzed many projects and programs that have been crucial to the Park’s expeditious renewal.

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ASSETS

Riverside Park has benefited by thirty years of engaged and supported park tenders, volunteers and user groups.

The Conservancy encouraged local groups to adopt different parts of the park to care for, and in the first 10 years roughly 40 spots were taken. One group maintained the clay tennis courts, others looked after the playgrounds and a community garden group took responsibility for beautifying the park’s northern section.

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ASSETS

37

One of Riverside Park’s biggest assets is the dedicated Landscape Architect on staff, who prepares designs for capital projects and horticulture projects with an understanding of the Park’s history and artistic opportunities.

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ASSETS Thirty years of elected official support for projects in the 1984 Master Plan have made Riverside Park the community’s pride.

1984 Master Plan

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ASSETS A new ADA compliant pedestrian bridge across the West Side Highway will make it possible for local residents to have easy access to the waterfront park at West 148th Street for the first time.

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ISSUES: CIRCULATION What are the major challenges?

The success of the bike route has created a hazardous environment for bikers, children and pedestrians.

Bicycle and pedestrian conflict occurs frequently, especially on the waterfront esplanade.

It is important to analyze the route throughout and find appropriate solutions to mitigate bike / pedestrian accidents.

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ISSUES: AGING POPULATION Local neighborhood populations are aging.

Improving ADA access is necessary throughout the park. Smoother pavement and dropped curves would make the park more accessible for users of all ages and abilities.

Frequent seating areas, hand rails, and restrooms can make the park more inviting for seniors.

Thousands

Population Change 2000-2010 4 3 2 1 0 -1 -2 -3 -4 -5

Upper Westside

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Morningside Heights

Manhattanville

41

ISSUES: RECREATION and STRUCTURES Important structures, are highly deteriorated, and their continued use is threatened.

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ISSUES: RECREATION and STRUCTURES The marina requires dredging in order to function properly.

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ISSUES: RECREATION and STRUCTURES The North Waterfront playground, comfort station, fields and landscape should be improved.

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ISSUES: INFRASTRUCTURE and LANDSCAPE

Many of Riverside / west of the Parkway, and most of Riverside South, is within the 100-year floodplain and needs to be modified to survive future floods.

These areas have a 1% chance of flooding during any year. This means a 25% chance of flooding in any 25 year period. The 100year flood can occur two years in a row.

Areas adjacent to the 100-year flood will flood during a storm that includes wind driven waves or heavy rainfall.

The elevation of the Hudson River is projected to rise 11 to 21 inches by 2050. This will cause tidal flooding of Cherry Walk.

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ISSUES: INFRASTRUCTURE and LANDSCAPE Many of Riverside Drive’s pedestrian zones have deteriorated pavements, drainage structures, and benches.

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ISSUES: INFRASTRUCTURE and LANDSCAPE The Riverside Drive retaining walls, as well as the stairs and granite cladding on the 1937 structures, require inspection, stone resetting and repointing.

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ISSUES: INFRASTRUCTURE and LANDSCAPE Riverside Drive medians, curbs and drainage are in poor condition between W97th and W116th Street.

Water courses into the park at W97th and W115th Streets.

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ISSUES: INFRASTRUCTURE and LANDSCAPE The park-wide deterioration of drainage systems, pavements and fencing affect the usability of the park and create an appearance of disrepair.

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ISSUES: INFRASTRUCTURE and LANDSCAPE Trees throughout the park need care. The woodlands need invasive tree and vine removal, as well as succession plantings for improved habitat.

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ISSUES: INFRASTRUCTURE and LANDSCAPE The deterioration of forest and landscape areas, lawns, drainage systems, pavements, benches and fences have exceeded the ability of the current maintenance force. Park repair and cleanliness is suffering.

2002

2016

20 full time operations staff

14 full time operations staff

14 full time horticulture staff

1 full time horticulture staff

2002

2016

6 seasonal operations staff

1 seasonal operations staff

7 seasonal horticulture staff

0 seasonal horticulture staff

In 1984, the City Council established a dedicated budget for Erosion Control in Riverside Park.

The Program restored 12 acres of the park per year, and maintained those areas.

The full time staff budget and the expense budget for seasonal employees and supplies was reduced whenever the NYC Parks’ budget was cut, but was not restored as the Department’s budget was restored.

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52

COMMUNITY PRIORITIES We learned what people know, what they are concerned about, what they are working on, and what they think can be done. We interviewed park users, group leaders, NYC Parks personnel and external experts.

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POSTCARDS FROM 2035

53

What community members imagined they would write home in 2035 he glass t e v e li e b nd the I have never seen USA a day in Riv t to Hudson Beach You won’t , e en a w h e d t W n t u n e t $5 p o a s pla R ce e n tha t e e W r h t it ild e, h r m ti c e t v ea e gr k o h a r t d a , ha e d p k an had so many volunteers endom er the v erside Par o nteer e lu g o id v r a b h n it lt like Santa Monica, fe ia h w gag r ed t d in t u car e s ing o k e for r S a d pa o rk. e d e It w p an bed on th e garden k ll up bars, rings, clim h ic pu t fel n t d like ic e a rea p e l co mm w e n un ity o t d way. W Great law We visite pes and even trapezro e . g h in it t pla u ce. r , f e s k k g li c n pi lt ldi op-in bui r d lawn, it fe E E R H il- es!

T h c . r k r o f a s p e gam RIVERSIDE PARK in Central one with h fitness it w r e h t l dren, ano nd another Today we hea a I ic r a g n a t m h a e rd so man is e n tire length o ipment a u q c e y different n le o h f s lt Riverside park o t a h e u o e h n n a p d a a d s r s e k bird songs t o o s f f t o n t raffic. It is path made ju o it g that h in r and almos lo p w x e s s e e t o v u for run- ture. nice witho sed to end ners. The la t place, I lo ut the traffi ure.. w n s w e r e e p lu s c noise sh and gs, e lovely, the p We co in n e v e e t a r e p la n m t e ings filled wit t uldn’ c t o h lo a p r ic x t get o a l o n t d a in interest. Th s it n it n t e h s w y is ll ver ho a ia park is c n so perfect fo d i n n t e d r g w hea in r the neigh e L f e o h t s n e o c s l e w b h o o t r h lthy t even the wa ood, oked. this p ing with most ter fountain he ark h It is a s and rec o strooms are m a m m s beco vironm a joy. unit aztrees

Solar entally c y engaged me the ters, g powered li onscious i and eng n reen i nfras hts, compo the city. st cen tructu re…W OW!

34 , after s k r a P m iring fro hat a long way t e r m a I W en service. f o s mber wh ipr e a m e e y r I dr come, cave of k r a we have d a was I loved e g . a s r e a it g t c the and stala ored the r e t a w ping ally rest e in f e w ern offic d o m it when a e ivI can’t believe how and had ina is th a r d a R n m u t o e o h t R T off much cleaner the g garage. nd the a y n r , i d t s k d a o n c a t snea work un river is. I can’t wai he East e e trees t h v t n o o , l h t s s e lu be g I rk to under th grass is a to try the swimmin e Rats e h p h t t , d . e . n k a d r Pa d, g. ersi trees, or n d prune i beach . n a n y i h a lt e r ea Walking is h h s n’t easy a der t when it i e think I nyre gone! more, but a pl ed West i ter o r u l the park h e b e a p f h o , s m as , ramps with Our drea a joy ! e today t r e Rivhandrails u a d t a a e h m n h s t a e h h t W g c l e y sp e u a en i W t f everywher the day at the clay tennis ro s off ide Highw e, I can ge n S walk th rough the tree a e t h a t e n r n i g ve up to t i li cou s to the Riv rts a h k an r t d m m a d tri ed o P e a the l a o ne h h t l w t s “G b i u e ree o h n’ er! I can re ” d erside S ally W rd the wind w d the birds an ss next relax and sw a im bad it mi r ng o g po o ol in T e the a . h riv e s er. e t enjoy the y n E h o ven o n j i t o n a flowers. What eeze, e g on g time all expect though the day was chilly, the a joy to fin River br e sat for a lon e waves lappin . e to make k a u q h t r a da t h e W clean bath e t s n n to water was warm because of the roll took a room. bushes. d the su stening i n l a , r e e d i v i t e back cover! Hope to return soon! to the r appen. h ching th it t a w , s k the roc

We went to the beach at 145 th street and enjoyed the beauty .

We stayed till 11PM. There were games for the children, dan cing, stargazing and yes…fr olicking!

Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

COMMUNITY CONCERNS What did we learn from the workshops?

People who have a history of working in a park or using a park have intimate knowledge of what should be preserved, enhanced or fixed.

We conducted two community workshops that included a broad range of park users, residents of Community Districts 7 and 9, and representatives from park user groups.

They mapped their concerns, their current initiatives and ideas for improvement. They prioritized their concerns and helped us visualize their wishes by writing a “postcard from the future.”

We transcribed all of this information and categorized it so we could investigate their concerns and develop projects and programs to address them.

The Master Plan Advisory Council synthesized this information into the Goals, listed on the next pages. These goals are the priority of the Master Plan.

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54

COMMUNITY GOALS Recreation and Facilities

55

Recreational Areas

• Add opportunities for adolescent, adult and senior fitness.

• Repurpose underused facilities.

Playgrounds

• Increase playground opportunities and equipment especially north of West 100th Street.

Restrooms

• Provide restrooms in areas that need them.

• Keep all restrooms open and clean when people are using the park.

Dogs

• Change to dog friendly ice melting products.

• Encourage dog owners to feel more a part of the Riverside park community.

• Provide dog runs in areas of the park that need them, and enforce leash and waste laws.

Drinking Fountains

• Provide attractive and clean drinking fountains in areas that need them, April to November.

Monuments

• Continue the restoration of monuments, prioritize the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ monument.

• Improve the landscaping, lighting and upkeep of monuments throughout the park.

free kayaking new york city hudson river

Programming

• Provide more year-round programs and encourage more community programming.

Hudson River

• Improve kayak access and facilities.

• Provide places to wade or swim.

Marina

• Improve usability of the marina for boating and public access. Restore the marina structures and adapt them to coastal flooding.

Concessions

• Look for new opportunities such as kayak rental, roving morning coffee and healthy snacks near summer camps.

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COMMUNITY GOALS Nature and Landscape

56

Scenic Landscape

• Improve the scenic beauty and views of the park.

• Correct erosion and drainage problems.

Horticulture

• Add seasonal beauty, fragrance and character using native plants and plants that will adapt to climate change.

• Improve weeding, poison ivy removal and soil enrichment.

Park Identity and Memory

• Enhance the landscapes of special places and give them poetic names so people can identify them.

Grass and Fences

• Improve lawn and fence appearance.

• Install permanent fences and improve the design and upkeep of temporary fences.

• Improve lawn health by eliminating ponding and using mulching mowers for grass and leaves.

Riverside Drive

• Restore Riverside Drive, its medians, landscapes, tree panels, walking areas and drainage systems.

• Examine placement and signalization of crosswalks to ensure every neighborhood and age group has access without barriers or trip hazards.

Tree Care

• Provide more frequent and thorough inspection and care of park trees, including disease control, removing dead branches and diseased trees, fertilization and watering.

Natural Areas

• Map natural areas and educate staff and volunteers about how to optimize their work efforts for effectiveness, natural area health and habitat.

Climate Change and Flooding

• Develop a long-term plan to protect the park from flooding. Additionally, park management should adapt the park’s plant choices for flooding and warmer weather.

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COMMUNITY GOALS Circulation and Safety

57

Bike / Pedestrian

• Make Riverside Park a much safer and enjoyable experience for bicyclists and pedestrians.

Path Condition and Accessibility

• Improve path conditions and handicapped accessibility throughout the park.

• Ensure there are benches placed for seniors.

Trails

• Provide soft and well drained paths for runners and nature lovers.

Highway

• Increase pedestrian safety in tunnels.

• Connect the park at West 96th Street.

• Decrease highway noise.

Orientation

• Provide orientation maps at entrances and discrete directional signage to major destinations at decision points.

Signage

• Provide attractive, friendly and legible rule signage at entrances and in problem areas.

Safety

• Provide call boxes to assist in emergency situations.

Lighting

• Provide lighting in areas that will receive night time use, such as bike route, as well as the paths to get there.

• Investigate improved aesthetic, management systems and energy efficiency.

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COMMUNITY GOALS Park Operations and Public Engagement

58

Operations

• Prioritize increased maintenance and repair throughout the park.

• Include slopes, trees, vegetation, retaining walls, stairs, paths and drainage.

• Improve skills, support and coordination of staff.

• Develop sustained funding for increased staffing and support facilities.

Infrastructure Condition & Restoration

• Inventory and inspect all walls, stairs and drainage systems to improve their function and longevity.

• Develop City funding sources to improve park infrastructure.

Education and Enforcement

• Increase public knowledge and enforcement of rules in problem areas.

• Concentrate enforcement in areas where the pattern of use is destructive to the park and discourages neighborhood use.

• Pay attention to littering, noise, alcohol and dog feces.

Public Engagement

• Provide opportunities, such as a learning center, for individuals and families to learn about the park and how to garden.

• Create a stronger social media presence to support volunteerism and fund raising for projects.

Volunteers

• Identify more areas for communal gardens such as West 91st Street.

• Provide excellent coordination and support for volunteer efforts.

• Provide neighborhood tool and composting areas.

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CONTEXT

59

Where is Riverside Park and who uses it?

Community District 7 Total population 209,000

Community District 9 Total population 110,000

Change since 2000

Change since 2000

Under 20 Over 65

Under 20 Over 65

-25% + 7%

Riverside Park stretches four miles on the Hudson shore of Manhattan

13% do not exercise 12% are obese 4% have diabetes 11% below poverty line

2015 Community Health Profiles

59th Street

158th Street

110th Street

23% do not exercise 25% are obese 9% have diabetes 28% below poverty line Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

+10% +27%

WALKING DISTANCE TO FACILITIES

60

Playgrounds This area is served by four small tot lots on Riverside Drive. The tot lots are insufficient for the number of children living in the area and enrolled in the neighborhood’s day care centers. Workshop participants requested more swings and equipment.

54thSt

72ndSt

79thSt

The playground at West 148th Street next to the Hudson River is in need of an upgrade to serve the increased numbers of people who will be able to reach it when the pedestrian bridge is complete in 2017.

96thSt 110thSt

125thSt

135thSt

145thSt

155thSt

Children Under 10yrs Demographics and Facilities

± 0

0.25

Miles 0.5

Playgrounds and Quater-mile Radius Number of Children Under 10yrs per Census Tract Parks Playgrounds School Yard Playgrounds Tot-lots

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Children's Facilities & Schools Under Elementary

1600-1695

101 - 600

Daycares and Head Start Center

1101 - 1600

<100

Elementary School and K-12 School

601 - 1100

Basketball

WALKING DISTANCE TO FACILITIES Basketball

61

Basketball

DEMOGRAPHICS & RECREATIONAL NEEDS

Handball Handball

Handball Handball

±±

Half-mile Walking Distance to Sports Courts Half-mile WalkingMiles Distance toBasketball SportsCourts Courts 0

0.25

0.5

and Half-Mile Radius Basketball Courts Half-mile Distance toand Sports Courts 0 Walking 0.25 Half-Mile Radius

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Miles 0.5

Handball Courts and Half-mile Radius Handball Courts and Half-mile Radius

Produced by Planning&Parklands Division, 09.2015, Data Sources: NYC Parks, Copyright 2015, NYC Parks Produced by Planning&Parklands Division, 09.2015, Data Sources: NYC Parks, Copyright 2015, NYC Parks

Produced by Planning&Parklands Division,

Baseball and Softball Baseball and Softball WALKING DISTANCE TO FACILITIES

62

Baseball & Softball

Soccer and Football Soccer and Football

Soccer Football Soccer and&Football

Half-mile Walking Distance to Sports Fields

±±

Half-mile WalkingMiles Distance to Sports Fields Baseball&Softball Fields 0

0.25

0.5

and Half-Mile Radius Baseball&Softball Fields Half-mile Distance to Sports Fields 0 Walking 0.25 and Half-Mile Radius Riverside Park Master Plan 2016 Miles 0.5

Soccer&Football Fields and Half-mile Radius Soccer&Football Fields and Half-mile Radius

Produced by Planning&Parklands Division, 09.2015, Data Sources: NYC Parks, Copyright 2015, NYC Parks Produced by Planning&Parklands Division, 09.2015, Data Sources: NYC Parks, Copyright 2015, NYC Parks Produced by Planning&Parklands Division,

DEMOGRAPHICS Senior Citizens

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Needs: • Senior citizen activities • Pavement changes to reduce trip hazards • Smother transitions at dropped curbs • Benches on sidewalks to allow resting • Some stairs need to be converted to ramps to improve wheelchair accessibility

63

64

DESIGN HISTORY & PARK EVOLUTION The design history of the park informs the characteristics of a historically appropriate park restoration.

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DESIGN HISTORY AND PARK EVOLUTION

65

Why is design history important?

Preface Riverside Park, like all of New York City’s Parks, went through a thirty-year period of underfunded and uninformed maintenance prior to 1983. This was accompanied by vandalism, dumping and abuse that left the park in poor condition.

After 1984, much was done to reverse the deterioration of the prior decades. The New York City Parks Department and the Riverside Park Conservancy, formerly Riverside Park Fund, worked to drastically improve the park in accordance with the 1984 master plan prepared by the Planning office of New York City Parks.

That plan included the first description of the Park’s historic design development.

There were many complex questions: What remained of the original Olmsted landscapes? Which areas should be restored? What are their design characteristics? What eras should the restoration represent? What form should new construction take?

The history published here is largely the result of field investigations, archival research, and analysis conducted by the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation, Office of Planning and Preservation in 1982-1984. It has been Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

augmented with new knowledge and photographs.

Design Synopsis Frederick Law Olmsted, the designer of many of the world’s most important parks, conceived the concept for the sinuous Riverside Drive and the Park that preserved the natural valleys and rock outcroppings of the Hudson shoreline.

Olmsted’s prescient philosophy became the foundation of the New York City Park values. He wrote, “Plant materials should thrive, be non-invasive, and require little maintenance. The design should conserve the natural features of the site to the greatest extent possible and provide for the ecological health of the area.”

In 1892, the nation chose Riverside Park for the tomb of General Grant. Riverside Drive became the favored site for monuments exalting heros of the city and the world, including Joan of Arc, and the Soldiers and Sailors of the Civil War. In the 1930s, under the direction of Robert Moses, Landscape Architects Gilmore D. Clarke and Michael Rapuano and Architect Clinton Loyd designed plans to expand the park, put the railroad in a tunnel and construct a parkway along the

Hudson River. Over four years, workers of the Works Project Administration created 132 acres of parkland on landfill, with courts, ballfields, and playgrounds nestled around the scenic parkway. New Yorkers finally gained access to the Hudson River; the marina and Rotunda served as the City’s front door for visiting ships and marine dignitaries.

Design Significance Riverside Park illustrates the evolution of the Olmsted Parkway concept, the English landscape style and the City Beautiful period, as well as the finest work of Gilmore D. Clarke, Michael Rapuano and Clinton Loyd.

The Park’s special character, history, and sophisticated incorporation of major infrastructure earned it national, state, and city Landmark status in the early 1983.

The following pages illustrate the major steps in the Park’s evolution; they show how they relate to each other, recognize the great ideas, and describe a method to build on them to meet our current recreational needs and cultural aspirations.

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Who were the major designers and what were their design intentions?

Park Designers and Their Intentions It is useful and interesting to know how the original designers acquired their knowledge and how they approached design in order to appropriately restore, or modify their work with empathy. Frederick Law Olmsted, and Michael Rapuano, the lead landscape architect of the Moses era park, approached park design differently.

Frederick Law Olmsted acquired an appreciation of scenic landscapes by wandering the countryside of his childhood Connecticut. Often riding on horseback with his father through passages of scenery helped him understand the value of silent enjoyment without comment or evaluation. His travels in Europe and immersion in the works of Humphrey Repton and John Ruskin among others convinced him of the social value of landscape.

Early years spent studying surveying and engineering and his time spent as a farmer on Staten Island helped him devise an innovative approach to park design. This unique grounding and his fortunate partnership with Calvert Vaux, an architect who had worked extensively with Andrew Jackson Downing, enabled the creation of Central and Prospect parks.

Olmsted’s core intention was to create an environment of unconscious influence rather than one that sought admiration. He engaged people through the enjoyment of a diffuse natural looking environment rather than “obviously designed” beauty or manmade features that demanded attention. He believed this would arouse curiosity and draw attention away from day-to-day concerns and troubling thoughts and create a restorative experience for harried city dwellers. The most effective design technique he and Calvert Vaux employed to accomplish this was to assess the natural beauty and attributes of a place and then amplify that-- beyond what would have happened naturally.

The most important Riverside Park design ideas credited to Olmsted were the sinuous Riverside Drive that curved around areas of topographical interest, and the focus on drawing the gaze to the Hudson River. These continue to be two of the defining characteristics of the park.

Olmsted’s vision was implemented by Calvert Vaux and Samuel Parsons among others so the interior layout of the late 19th and early 20th century park reflected the aesthetic of the day and was similar to other city parks, curvilinear paths connected by bluestone stairs set in a landscape of rolling lawns punctuated by massed plantings of naturalistic shrubs and canopy trees.

Michael Rapuano’s education at Cornell University focused on the design of estates with European garden and villa inspirations.1 His most influential professor was Edward G. Lawson, a gifted designer and illustrator of gardens and estates. Rapuano won a Rome prize in 1927, which afforded him time to experience Rome and its treasured villas. When Lawson joined him in Rome as a visiting professor, they toured gardens in Italy as well as

Spain and France, discussing history and theory.2 When Rapuano returned to the United States, he worked for Gilmore D. Clarke, also taught by Lawson, of the Westchester County Park Commission, designing parks and the first “motor parkways.” Rapuano was in charge of Landscape Design in Clarke’s office when Robert Moses picked Clarke to redesign the New York City park system.

Rapuano applied his design sensibilities and talent to the New York City park system, creating what landscape architect and author Thomas J. Campanella described as “publicworks baroque.” This design style was most likely intended to be enjoyed for its artfulness, bold plantings, romantic architecture, and mastery of automobile and pedestrian circulation.

It was designed in plan drawings, at a drafting board, using a French curve-- rather than in the field, in response to natural topography and features, as Olmsted would have designed it. His work lacked the overt social and psychological intent that drove Olmsted’s work but provided a much more varied park experience for 20th century city residents. Active recreation, playgrounds, a scenic parkway and waterfront esplanade added to the diversity of park experience.

Gilmore D. Clarke and Michael Rapuano worked with engineering, architecture and highway design professionals to integrate trains, cars and recreational facilities into the existing park and park expansion. They brought Olmsted’s circulation and land use design goals into the automobile age and developed a park design vocabulary that guided the Moses era park system expansion. The Henry Hudson Parkway blends seamlessly into the park while taking advantage of the sweeping views of the adjacent landscape and Hudson River.

1

2 The Rise and Fall of Edward G. Lawson, by Thomas J. Campanella, Landscape Architecture Magazine March 2012.

Harvard University, at the same time, focused on the broader profession of landscape architecture, Olmsted and the public realm.

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What are the important design issues that will guide the Park restoration?

Riverside Park is an amalgam of 19th and The Park expansion designed by Gilmore 20th Century park designs. It is the result D. Clarke, Michael Rapuano and Clinton of a progression of cultural development: the Loyd is a masterwork of landscape evolution of the English Gardening ideal as architecture and infrastructure with significant interpreted by Olmsted and his followers in the architectural elements. late 1880s and as reinterpreted by Gilmore • The Moses era landscape and structures D. Clarke and Michael Rapuano in the 1930s, should be restored in accordance with the rather than one discrete period. original plans.

• Preserve the character and gesture of The restoration should illustrate the the original planting plans. Adjust them to essential design qualities of each of the improve scenic beauty and habitat value. major periods of the Park’s development: The City Beautiful monuments were placed Riverside Drive, the islands, and the in the park with variable regard for Olmsted retaining wall are the backbone of Olmsted’s intentions. design, remarkable in its configuration, • Existing monuments should be treated as design, and construction. It should be evocative structures in an English landscape. restored in a manner that elevates it to • Protect park landscapes from new prominence. The layout changes and material monuments. choices from the 1930s and the Hoof bench • Riverside Drive is the most appropriate should be accepted. location for new monuments.

• The current pipe rails, hex block and granite block pavements are expressive of the Additions to the park after 1937, which were Olmsted period, but were installed during the not sensitive to the established palettes of 1935 expansion of the park. materials or the scenic quality of their settings, should be screened with landscape, modified The original interior of the park was not or removed.

• Inappropriate highway rails, signs and designed in accordance with Frederick Law lighting should be modified.

Olmsted’s direction. In addition, during the 1939 expansion of the park, it was excavated and overlaid with new paths and plantings. A historically accurate restoration is impossible.

• Restore it in accordance with Olmsted’s aesthetic goals.

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Character defining features have been lost and need to be replaced: • The Rotunda Fountain at 79th Street • The bronze railings on 1935 structures • The Riverside Park luminaires • The decorative lamps on the viaduct at 96th Street • The shelter on the overlook terrace at 155th St. Some areas of the park fall short of their scenic and recreational potential and need to be restored or enriched: • The South Lawn at 74th Street • Classic playground at 75th St. • Dinosaur playground at 97th St. • The Waterfront esplanade • The Marina at 79th Street • The Rotunda at 79th Street • Mount Tom at 83rd Street • The Soldiers and Sailors Monument • The Vale at 90th St. • Riverside Drive and Islands • The Olmstedian scenic areas • The promenade 101-111 • The Crab Apple Grove at 92nd St. • The site of Claremont Inn and terrace • The grave of the “Amiable Child” • The Riverside Drive viaduct ensemble at 125th Street • The Neo-classical entry ensembles and walls 135th to 158th Streets • Sakura Park

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What was the topography and character of the site before the park?

Pre-park Era The earliest map of Manhattan was prepared by the British when they occupied it. Their map shows the schist ridge that now supports Riverside Drive, It shows the rolling farmland topography and the streams from the island’s interior to the Hudson River flood plain.

It is easy to imagine the original inhabitants, the Lenape people, thriving in this verdant shoreline territory.

Over time trappers, traders and farmers pushed out the native people and occupied the sylvan hills.

In the 1700s, people of greater means cleared land for farming or built homes, gardens and grounds that took advantage of the majestic vistas. They domesticated the once sublime Hudson Valley ridge as they escaped the densifying city and the ills of the day.

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Frederick Law Olmsted’s Plan

Initial purchase and plan By 1811, all of Manhattan had been surveyed and platted with a rectangular street pattern, without regard for topography, streams or natural beauty.

Immigration was swelling the population, and by 1865, the need for middle class housing was tremendous.

There was pressure to install the grid of streets all of the way to the Hudson River. Fortunately, Parks Commissioner William E. Martin proposed a scenic carriage drive that would benefit from the picturesque views of the Hudson River valley. He argued that Riverside Park would encourage development, enhance the city’s tax base and relieve downtown overcrowding.

In 1866, New York State Legislature granted Parks Commissioner Andrew Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

H. Green permission to purchase the precipice above the River to build that park and drive.

The street was planned as a straight avenue 100 feet wide. This configuration would have required extensive fill, regrading, and an expensive retaining wall, destroying the natural beauty of the location. Thankfully, in 1873, Frederick Law Olmsted, who, along with Calvert Vaux, designed Central Park, proposed an elegant solution.

After examining the existing topography and discovering its steep slopes and natural qualities, Mr. Olmsted suggested an approach that would enhance the natural beauty of the location rather than destroy it.

F. L. Olmsted's Concept Olmsted advised the Parks Department to merge the land for the avenue with the land for the park and to build a sinuous drive which would curve around topographical difficulties and enhance the existing topography, views and vegetation.

The officials were pleased to hear the curving road would cost less because it required less retaining wall and fill. They approved his plan and work started in 1877.

DESIGN HISTORY AND PARK EVOLUTION Frederick Law Olmsted’s Plan

Olmsted shifted the Drive laterally into the park, so its length could be increased and the grades of the road could be gentle enough for horse drawn carriages. This curving carriage drive enjoyed sweeping views of the Hudson River Valley. Olmsted believed the park was too steep for recreation, so he proposed a limited path system that would give access to structures on the west side of the railroad tracks. The park incorporated the existing natural vegetation and the gardens of old estates, and served as a foreground to the Hudson River views.

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DESIGN HISTORY AND PARK EVOLUTION Frederick Law Olmsted’s Plan

Riverside Drive included a pedestrian walkway, a lane for horseback riding, two broad lanes for carriages separated by a median and a smaller side road that served the residential area when it was separated from the drive by landscaped islands.

North of W 100th Street there were five rows of elm trees for shade and beauty. Lindens were used on the southern portion.

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During the Moses era, the dirt horse riding lane shown in the photo above was converted to lawn panels.

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DESIGN HISTORY AND PARK EVOLUTION Frederick Law Olmsted’s Plan

The Parkway terminated at the Claremont Inn, overlooking the Manhattan Valley, where expansive views of the Hudson River and the Palisades were enjoyed.

(The viaduct shown in the illustrations was not constructed until 1901.)

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DESIGN HISTORY AND PARK EVOLUTION Design of the Park Interior Early Park Development Olmsted’s work did not extend to the inside of the Park; the Park was not designed under his supervision. In 1878 Olmsted was removed as Park Superintendant and his position was eliminated.

The Park was developed by a series of designers employed by the Parks Department from 1875 to 1900, including Samuel Parsons and Julius Munkwitz. They probably worked under the supervision of Calvert Vaux, who was appointed the Superintending Architect of the Department of Public Parks after 1881.

They likely had an understanding of Olmsted’s design approach, but Olmsted’s concept was not adhered to, nor was there a comprehensive plan for the whole park.

“In many important particulars the design has been mangled,” wrote Olmsted to H.K. Beekman, the President of the Department of Public Parks, in 1886. Olmsted believed the park was too steep for recreation and that the slope should not be planted with trees that would block views from the drive; both of these things were done by his successors. He offered to do a comprehensive plan with Calvert Vaux, but he was not given this opportunity.

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DESIGN HISTORY AND PARK EVOLUTION Design of the Park Interior The inside of the Park was laid out with paths and plantings in the English Gardening style.

Photographs show how they enhanced the natural beauty of the setting and provided picturesque sequences of views. The changing character included linear paths which afforded glimpses of the River and settings for vegetation for visual delight. The rustic retaining wall separated the park from the city and formed a refuge.

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DESIGN HISTORY AND PARK EVOLUTION Design of the Park Interior

Voluptuous meadows opened to the River prospects and sought to appear as a natural extension of the Hudson River valley landscape.

The railroad however, separated the park from the River, which, along with the coal bins, the storage yards and sheds, eroded the pastoral illusion.

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DESIGN HISTORY AND PARK EVOLUTION Riverside Drive Chronology 1877 Construction started on Riverside Drive 1880 Paths are laid out in the park.

1880 Some portions of Olmsted’s drive: W72nd to W85th, W86th to W91st, W99th to W113th were open for pleasure driving, walking and cycling.

1890 Clarence True builds townhouses along the Drive from W76th Street to W83rd Street.

1891 Paths inside the park are installed from W72nd Street to W79th Street.

1892 Construction starts on Grant’s Tomb in a setting designed by Calvert Vaux.

1895 Paths are designed in Riverside Park from W96th Street to W120th Street.

1895 Calvert Vaux dies.

1897 Ulysses S. Grant’s memorial is completed.

1902 The viaduct connecting the drive at W96th Street was finished and the area’s popularity was established.

1903 Frederick Law Olmsted dies.

1904 The Drive became a fashionable residential area, mansions and brownstones line the boulevard.

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DESIGN HISTORY AND PARK EVOLUTION The changing landscape at General Grant’s Tomb Calvert Vaux Plan for Grant’s Tomb - Unrealized

Current Moses era layout as shown in 1941, equestrian statue deleted from final installation

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The landscape plan as realized ca.1934

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DESIGN HISTORY AND PARK EVOLUTION Olmsted Era Park Character

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Olmsted Era Park Character

W123th St

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W115th St

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Olmsted Era Park Character

C B

W115th St

B

W 101th St

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Olmsted Era Park Character

D

E

W86th St

W101th St

D

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Olmsted Era Park Character

G

F

W86th St

F

W72th St

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DESIGN HISTORY AND PARK EVOLUTION Extension of Riverside Drive to W155th Street Riverside Drive Extension 125th Street to 155th Street The Manhattan Valley blocked the extension of Riverside Drive until 1901 when it was bridged by a heroic viaduct of steel lattice arches. This viaduct was designed and built by Francis Stuart Williamson, a civil engineer employed

by Charles Henry Davis.

Its 26 bays of filigreed steel work created a Piranisian environment of patterned sunlight streams below, and provided expansive views of the City and the River from above. In 1901, Andrew E. Foye, the Chief Engineer of the Department of Highways, boasted that the Viaduct was the beginning of the finest parkway ever built in the City.

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DESIGN HISTORY AND PARK EVOLUTION Extension of Riverside Drive to W155th Street By 1902, the Department of Public works developed plans to extend Riverside Drive to W155th Street.

Francis Stuart Williamson employed the same concept developed by F.L. Olmsted for the park from W72nd Street to W125th Street. The Drive extension curved around topographical difficulties and was supported at critical locations by a retaining wall.

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DESIGN HISTORY AND PARK EVOLUTION Extension of Riverside Drive to W155th Street The retaining walls and entry ensembles were of the Neo Classical style popularized by the City Beautiful movement rather than the rustic style favored

by Olmsted, The land west of the retaining wall sloped steeply down to the railroad wall and was covered with grass that allowed these grand structures, evocative of a great civilization, to be viewed from the Hudson River.

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DESIGN HISTORY AND PARK EVOLUTION City Beautiful Monuments

City Beautiful Monuments In the early 1900s, after the advent of the City Beautiful movement, the Park began to serve as a site for monuments and sculptures that exalted the City's heroes and the virtues they represented.

One particularly notable example is the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ monument by Stoughton & Stoughton and Paul E.M. Duboy in honor of the City's Civil War dead.

Like most of the other monuments in the Park, this one was a revival of classical motifs and structures. It is an exuberant Beaux Arts interpretation of the Choragic Monument of Lysicrates in Athens, Greece.

It was architecturally integrated into the topography and sited in a prominent location where it would serve as a focal point for the streets, thus drawing the view from the City into the Park.

The Park was no longer an idealized version of nature; it now contained noble and dignified architectural structures that memorialized great people and their accomplishments.

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Covering the Railroad

The Railroad

Early Proposals for Covering the Railroad

The railroad began to increase its noise and visual distraction by expanding its line to six tracks in the early 1900s as well. The railroad tracks, which formed the western boundary of the park, from W72nd Street to W155th Street, separated the park from the trash dumps, coal bins and storage yards that lined the river. In 1894, the State Legislature had attempted to prohibit industrial development along the river into the park, but this action did not stop the railroad expansion.

The early 1900s produced many controversial proposals to cover the railroad tracks or otherwise remove their blighting influences. Finally, in 1913 the railroad was pressured by the State Legislature into developing a plan to enclose those tracks in a tunnel that could support a park or an esplanade from W72nd Street to W123rd Street. No improvements were implemented, and in 1924 Comptroller Charles R. Craig proposed using landfill to extend the Park past the railroad tracks. His plan included a 25-foot esplanade along the waterfront from W72nd Street to W129th Street, and a roadway on top of an enclosed railway. He would have landscaped the new land, restored the existing park and provided playgrounds, playfields, tennis courts, and marinas. To the chagrin of the Westsiders, this improvement was not constructed and the decline of the Park continued. Years of Tammany Hall mismanagement coupled with the noise and fumes from the railroad soon rendered the Park almost completely unfit for use.

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DESIGN HISTORY AND PARK EVOLUTION McKim, Mead and White Design

McKim, Mead and White Proposal In 1929, McKim, Mead and White were hired to prepare plans for covering the railroad. They were requested to remove the grade crossings, enclose the railroad in a tunnel, and incorporate a new highway into an expanded park. They proposed a design that made the tunnel appear to be a grand wall that supported the west side of Manhattan. It was designed as a Roman aqueduct of granite, embellished with Neoclassical details and a balustraded parapet. This City Beautiful style terrace and wall supported a highway on top with pedestrian tunnels connecting the existing park to a new park next to the River.

A section of this design from W72nd Street to W79th Street was under construction in 1934 when Robert Moses became the new Commissioner of a unified five borough Parks Department.

He soon discarded McKim, Mead and White’s plans on the grounds that the highway would be turned into a roller coaster by the pedestrian tunnels under its roadbed, that the highway would be constricted by inadequate access, and that the plans were generally impractical.

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DESIGN HISTORY AND PARK EVOLUTION Robert Moses Era Park Enlargement Robert Moses Era Park Enlargement Under the direction of Robert Moses, Gilmore D. Clarke, Michael Rapuano and Clinton Loyd developed plans to use the top of the tunnel for parkland and put the highway on landfill.

With the advent of the family car and pleasure driving, it had become desirable to design this highway as a scenic drive along the Hudson River and to link it to the outskirts of the city. Therefore a new "parkway" was designed which enhanced the pleasure of the speed and uninterrupted forward movement made possible by grade separations and access ramps.

By 1937 this new "parkway" was built; it was graceful, it followed the terrain and was merged with the landscape to orchestrate sequences of views to the river and into the park for the automobile passenger.

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DESIGN HISTORY AND PARK EVOLUTION Robert Moses Era Park Enlargement This new design created 132 new acres of parkland on fill that was used to accommodate the new active recreation needs of the city. Basketball and tennis courts, ballfields, playgrounds, a marina and performance areas were integrated into the new topography and coils of the highway. The tunnel wall, covered by planted berms, and frequently punctuated by grand arched openings, sweeping stairs and terraces, became a backdrop for the parkway and the playgrounds.

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DESIGN HISTORY AND PARK EVOLUTION Robert Moses Era Park Enlargement

Michael Rapuano designed the pastoral romantic landscape, inspired by his studies of Italian landscapes and villas while a Rome Prize Fellow in 1927. He created long allées of London Plane trees and Robinia trees on the roof of the train tunnel. The wall of the train tunnel incorporated granite arches, terraces and broad step ramps, and grids of London Plane trees between the ballfields. He integrated the playgrounds at W97th and W74th Streets into the topography with curving step ramps and terraces like Italian villas.

These playgrounds with aspects of Villa d’ Este, celebrated water spray and play.

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DESIGN HISTORY AND PARK EVOLUTION Robert Moses Era Park Enlargement Robert Moses believed that this waterfront could be the most beautiful place in the world. He pictured great terraces overlooking the River with sailboats and yachts along the shore.

The 79th Street Boat Basin and Rotunda realized that dream. The Rotunda’s cool cloister with a fountain was a vestibule to the arcaded terrace overlooking the vessels in the marina. The marina became the City's front door for visiting yachts and marine dignitaries.

Finally New York City had a "river gate" grand enough to welcome and accommodate the yachts of the world.

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DESIGN HISTORY AND PARK EVOLUTION Robert Moses Era Park Enlargement

Relation between the Olmstedian Park and the Moses era design The promethian land form changes that were required to accommodate the train tunnel and parkway necessitated changing the topography in the original Olmstedian sections of the park. These changes included the removal of many of the original paths, stairways and plantings. The new paths were designed with a french curve on paper rather than laying out the paths on site with deference to existing natural features and views.

The new plantings were large masses and allees of trees.

Fast growing shrubs and ground covers were planted in large sweeps rather than diverse and unpredictable groupings favored by the English landscape style.

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DESIGN HISTORY AND PARK EVOLUTION Robert Moses Era Park Enlargement This regularization of landscape was accompanied by a new formalism of architectural elements and structures. Steep slopes were terraced for renaissance inspired allées of London Plane trees.

The park was no longer a rustic expression of the natural environment; it was now a demonstration of the power of engineering to reshape nature for transportation purposes, bringing Olmsted’s parkway concept into the automobile age.

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DESIGN HISTORY AND PARK EVOLUTION Robert Moses Era Park Enlargement

Robert Moses Era Park Development North of West 145th Street Plans for the park from West 144th Street to 155th Street were developed by Parks Department designers in a less grand style. The design used a simplified version of the architecture and playground arrangements prevalent in the southern section of the Park. The trains were left in an open cut, and the highway was supported on an elevated platform. Consequently pedestrian access to the new park was constricted and views of the 1900s Neoclassical wall ensembles were blocked. Nonetheless, it provided a naturalistic shoreline with views of the Palisades, the Hudson River and the George Washington Bridge.

This pragmatic approach to park development left much of this area’s potential beauty untapped. The parking lots, for a marina that was never built, took up land that could have been landscaped to provide the same type of naturalistic environment found in the southern section of the Park.

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DESIGN HISTORY AND PARK EVOLUTION Era of Decline

Park Changes between 1938 and 1984 After the Moses era park was completed, until work started on the park restoration in 1984, there were very few planned changes in the Park. The Park endured a long period of underfunded and uninformed maintenance. This was accompanied by vandalism, dumping and abuse.

In the 1960s, a playground and comfort station were built at West 76th Street next to Riverside Drive; a comfort station and recreation building were added to the playground in the vale at West 91st Street; tennis courts and comfort station were built in the meadow at West 119th Street; and tennis courts were built next to the River at West 97th Street.

None of these additions besides the tennis court at West 97th Street attempted to advance the 1937 plan for the Park through the use of the established palette of materials or landscaping concepts. They were built of brick and concrete block, in areas designed for scenic enjoyment.

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DESIGN HISTORY AND PARK EVOLUTION 1984 Plan and Park Restoration Era of Restoration and Revitalization In the early 1980s the Parklands Planning and Preservation Office of the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation analyzed Riverside Park’s: 1. Existing conditions and image 2. Recreational use and demand 3. History and design development The office prepared a master plan that included guidelines for the Park’s restoration, a conceptual master plan and a capital plan that was intended to save important landscapes, remove hazardous conditions, satisfy community recreational needs, and reduce maintenance expenses.

The conceptual master plan showed: 1. The recommended type, location, and quantity of recreational facilities and their physical characteristics and relationships to the landscape.

2. Circulation changes, landscape character and “theme areas,” view corridors, and land uses.

3. Desirable future changes, such as improvements that are not included in the capital plan that can be constructed by concessionaires or other providers.

The plan recommended horticultural restoration of the park accomplished by the Riverside Park restoration crews funded through the expense budget. The plan received the funding required for the restoration crews and the initial capital projects. Since that time most of the plan has been accomplished the through City’s capital budget, cooperation with other agencies and the strategic use of private funds, volunteer labor and in-house forces.

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After 30 years of effort implementing the Master Plan projects and restoration programs, Riverside Park is more vital and healthier, almost all of its athletic fields and playgrounds have been restored. Additionally, the marina, Rotunda and athletic field complexes have been activated.

The bicycle network has been stitched together with major connections along the River.

The following pages display the 1984 Master Plan, color coded to show what has been accomplished.

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What has been accomplished since 1984?

KEY

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SITE ANALYSIS AND CONCEPTUAL PLAN

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What are the major issues that need to be addressed?

Large portions of Riverside Park are inside the 100 Year floodplain (Illustrated by the blue shading on the map).

At locations where the pedestrian paths cross the temporary bicycle path, there is a conflict.

Bikers have been traveling in a separate path and are disinclined to yield to pedestrians. In addition, pedestrians are concealed by the PIER I fence next to the path.

Underground utilities and water systems are vulnerable to damage.

Plantings that are not tolerant of flooding and saltwater are vulnerable.

This will be remedied in a current capital project when the fences are removed and the intersections are marked more boldly.

The seawall and revetment is vulnerable to undermining in some locations.

KAYAK LAUNCH

RIVERSIDE PARK SOUTH

JOE DIMAGGIO HWY

BASKETBALL COURTS

PLAY AREA

VOLLEYBALL SPORTS FIELD

PLAYGROUND

DOG RUN

W59th St COMMUNITY NEEDS Seating and activities for people over 65

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W 61 ST

Prepared by Planning Division, August 2015

FREEDOM PL S

The long term plan for Riverside South is to relocate the elevated highway into a tunnel under Riverside Boulevard and the adjacent park.

The tunnel is partially constructed and funded.

OM PL

FREED

W71st St COMMUNITY CONCERNS

W 70 ST

200 Feet

W 66 ST

100

W 64 ST

0

W 63 ST

W 62 ST

Bicycle / Pedestrian Conflict

±

W 58 ST

Trees in need of Management

W 69 ST

2020 100-Year Floodplain

LVD

IDE B

RS RIVE

W 68 ST

SITE ANALYSIS

W 67 ST

Riverside Park

W 59 ST

PLAY AREA

CONCEPTUAL PLAN

107

What are the major projects?

PIER I

Complete the Parkway tunnel and demolish the elevated highway

Strengthen vulnerable curbs and pavements

RIVERSIDE PARK SOUTH

1.06

1.11

1.04 1.03 1.05

BASKETBALL COURTS

1.14 SPORTS FIELD

W 59 ST

PLAYGROUND

PLAY AREA

1.01

SIDE

R RIVE

FREEDOM PL S

Feet Bike Route (Proposed)

Retaining Wall Stairs Bike Route (Park) Bike Route (On Street - Suggested) Shared Markings Bike Lane Boardwalk Rip-rap Restroom Monument/Memorial 200

± Prepared by Parklands and Planning Division, February 2016

Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

PROJECTS 1.01 Complete the parkway tunnel and demolish the elevated highway 1.02 Construct the park over the parkway tunnel 1.03 Floodproof all electrical and irrigation systems 1.04 Strengthen vulnerable curbs and pavements 1.05 Stripe bike routes, jogging path and pedestrian crossings boldly, improve lighting 1.06 Complete the restoration of float bridge gantry 1.07 Improve pedestrian ramp at W68th Street

BLVD

W71st St

OM FREED

PL

W 66 ST

W 64 ST

W 63 ST

W 62 ST W 61 ST

W 58 ST

Master Plan

W 67 ST

DOG RUN

Riverside Park

100

1.10

1.02

1.12

W59th St

0

PLAY AREA

VOLLEYBALL

W 68 ST

1.09

JOE DIMAGGIO HWY

1.11

1.08 Construct kayak launch 1.09 Construct kayak storage 1.10 Make comfort stations year round and extend hours 1.11 Provide historical information signage 1.12 Adapt tunnel for storage of park equipment and materials 1.13 Obtain ferry operator for float bridge 1.14 Provide adult exercise equipment

W 70 ST

LAUNCH

1.04

W 69 ST

KAYAK 1.08

1.01 and 1.02

SITE ANALYSIS

108 • The Rotunda, the centerpiece of the park is highly deteriorated and its continued use threatened.

• The employee work areas are deteriorated • The Rotunda and Esplanade are not ADA accessible.

• The Marina would better serve the public better if it were dredged and expanded.

• The current docks, piers and dockmaster structure are vulnerable to damage from high water conditions.

• Parking is inadequate for an expanded facility.

Areas of frequent bicycle and pedestrian conflict and collision

SOCCER FIELD/TRACK

SOFTBALL

SOCCER FIELD

SOFTBALL

CLASSIC PLAYGROUND

SOCCER DOG RUN

BASKETBALL COURTS

Warsaw Ghetto Monument

NEUFELD PLAYGROUND RIVER RUN PLAYGROUND

W 71 ST

DOG RUN BASKETBALL

Hamilton Fountain

COMMUNITY NEEDS Seating and activities for seniors

Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

Bicycle and pedestrian accidents occur frequently, especially on the waterfront esplanade.

From our conversations, it appears W72nd Street, next to the River, is the worst area of conflict in the park.

COMMUNITY CONCERNS

W 82 ST

W82nd St W 81 ST

W 80 ST

W 79 ST

W 78 ST

W 77 ST

W 76 ST

W 75 ST

W 74 ST

W 73 ST

W 71st St

W 72 ST

W 71 ST

Eleanor Roosevelt Monument

CONCEPTUAL PLAN

109

2.09

2.01

Provide a scenic route with gentle slopes and good illumination for bike riders, ideally, separate from pedestrians. Any proposed bike infrastructure will need to be analyzed by DOT prior to implementation.

Restore the Rotunda and fountain and provide ADA compliant access to the Hudson River.

2.05

SOCCER FIELD/TRACK

SOCCER FIELD

2.04

SOFTBALL

CLASSIC PLAYGROUND

SOCCER

2.07

2.09

2.17

DOG RUN

2.06

BASKETBALL COURTS

2.08

W 71 ST

2.02 Warsaw Ghetto Monument

2.03

2.21

2.24

BASKETBALL

2.22

2.12 RIVER RUN PLAYGROUND

2.14

2.25

Hamilton Fountain

2.11

2.09

2.10

2.19

NEUFELD PLAYGROUND

DOG RUN

2.20

2.10

2.18 2.16

2.15

Dredge, strengthen and expand the Marina.

2.01

2.13 SOFTBALL

and 2.05

2.04

2.23

2.23

PROJECTS 2.01 Restore the Rotunda, fountain and cafe space.

2.02 Convert steps on both side of the Rotunda to ramps.

2.03 Widen and illuminate sidewalks in W79th Street underpass.

2.04 Dredge and strengthen marina.

2.05 Expand marina.

2.06 Reconstruct the W72nd Street ramp for ADA compliant access.

2.07 Create a new bike path between the ballfields and the dog run.

2.08 Extend the W72nd Street stairs with an archway for bike route.

2.09 Provide a designated scenic bicycle route W70th to W83rd Sts. 2.10 Decrease the grade to 3-5% for the bike path 2.11 Create a dedicated bike path with a separate entrance at 72nd Street.

2.12 Remove small diameter auto ramps.

2.13 Restore comfort stations at W76th Street.

Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

2.14 Stripe the bike route on both sides of W79th Street.

2.15 Improve the landscape and lighting around the dog run.

2.16 Install interpretation of Moses era parkway plantings.

2.17 Restore slope on west side of the Parkway.

2.18 Reduce parkway road noise, replace expansion joints and pavement.

2.19 Screen the dumpsters.

2.20 Reconstruct esplanade benches, and lighting 2.21 Create adult fitness area.

2.22 Create activity and sitting areas for seniors 2.23 Improve entrances, enhance beauty, reduce trip hazards.

2.24 Improve tunnel lighting and drainage.

2.25 Convert steps at W78th Street to ADA compliant ramp.

W 82 ST

W82nd St W 81 ST

W 80 ST

W 79 ST

W 78 ST

W 77 ST

W 76 ST

W 75 ST

W 74 ST

W 73 ST

W71st St

W 72 ST

W 71 ST

Eleanor Roosevelt Monument

SITE ANALYSIS

110

What needs to be addressed?

Storm water from the street and slopes overwhelm the storm drain system and floods the West 91st Street playground.

The Riverside Drive retaining walls, stairs and granite cladding the 1937 structures require inspection, stone resetting and repointing.

Some need new drainage, flashing metal tiebacks and reconstruction.

Areas of frequent bicycle and pedestrian conflict and collision

Some slope areas are eroded. Some paths require regrading to direct water away from the playground.

ree s needntin e p , to lo s e Th hin g t d n . a g prunin iews of the river open v is muchthe a e r a e h T due to improvsetodry plantings under e improving that arnal beauty. seaso

DOG RUN

Warsaw Ghetto Monument

Soldiers and Sailors Monument

HIPPO PLAYGROUND

LAYGROUND R

COMMUNITY NEEDS Volunteer house for tool storage

Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

COMMUNITY CONCERNS

W 94 ST

W 91 ST

W 90 ST

W 89 ST

W 88 ST

W 87 ST

W 86 ST

W 85 ST W 84 ST

W 83 ST

W 82 ST

W82nd St

W 93 ST

E RIV Joan of Arc Monument

RS

E RIV

W 92 ST

IDE

ED

ID RS

DR

W94th St

Due to the popularity of the bicycle route along the river, bicyclists enter the park on pedestrian paths. There is a conflict between bikers and people strolling on the path overlooking the Crab Apple Grove.

CONCEPTUAL PLAN

111

3.04 3.04

3.03

Develop Mt. Tom as a picturesque landscape with views of the Hudson River.

3.01

Restore and illuminate the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ monument and belvedere.

Reconstruct the paths at the Crab Apple Grove so that bikes and pedestrians are separated by benches facing the landscape.

3.11 3.07

3.02

3.00 3.15

3.14 3.04 3.05

Soldiers and Sailors Monument

3.17

3.03

3.16

HIPPO PLAYGROUND

3.09

3.16 IDE

3.12

PROJECTS

3.00 Provide a designated scenic bicycle route W82nd-W83rd and W91st-W94th Sts 3.01 Create a dedicated bike path from W95th St. 3.02 Widen the sidewalk at the W92nd Street tunnel.

3.03 Develop Mt. Tom as a feature landscape.

3.04 Restore Soldiers' and Sailors' monument and the belvedere.

3.05 Restore the W87th Street building as a volunteer center.

3.06 Restore the Joan of Arc monument setting and adjacent park paths.

3.07 Reconstruct the Parkway, raise it to prevent flooding.

Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

W 91 ST

W 90 ST

W 89 ST

W 88 ST

W 86 ST

W 87 ST

W 84 ST

W 83 ST

W 82 ST

W82nd St

W 85 ST

RS

E RIV

3.13 3.15

3.16

DR

3.01

R

ED

ID RS

3.06

R

IVE

Joan of Arc Monument

3.08 Install interpretation of Moses era parkway plantings.

3.09 Enhance winter landscape character and sledding safety.

3.10 Restore woodland health, remove invasive trees and vines, prune and thin trees.

3.11 Restore sea wall or rip-rap.

3.12 Provide cable fencing around Crab Apple tree grove.

3.13 Improve drainage to prevent playground flooding.

3.14 Restore stairs.

3.15 Path paving needed (not all locations shown).

3.16 Open views.

3.17 Senior citizen sitting and activity area.

3.18 Improve tunnel lighting and drainage.

W94th St W 94 ST

3.10

W 93 ST

DOG RUN

W 92 ST

3.08

Warsaw Ghetto Monument

LAYGROUND

3.00

3.08

3.16

3.08

3.18

SITE ANALYSIS

112 The Parkway has poor drainage, missing and inconsistent lighting, and extensively damaged guardrail.

The clay tennis courts are popular and well-programmed. However, they do not have restrooms or proper storage for equipment and supplies.

Areas of frequent bicycle and pedestrian conflict and collision

• Storm drainage inside the park needs cleaning and repair.

• Inoperative and inadequate storm sewers and compacted soil cause of flooding.

• Paths require regrading and repaving.

The guardrail is perceived by cyclists as inadequate to protect them from cars on the Parkway.

The south parking lot is used for park composting and storage of debris, which detracts from park beauty.

TENNIS VOLLEYBALL

SOFTBALL

SOFTBALL

101 STREET SOCCER FIELD BASKETBALL

VOLLEYBALL

SOCCER

DOG RUN

DINOSAUR PLAYGROUND

Firefighter’s Memorial DR

RIVERSIDE DR

COMMUNITY NEEDS Restroom to serve the Tennis Courts Restrooms for the Soccer field at West 101st Street

Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

The exit to Riverside Drive at W95th Street severs the Riverside Park pedestrian walkway.

The exit generates vehicular confusion and congestion on the Parkway and on W95th Street.

W 105 ST

W 104 ST

W 103 ST

W 102 ST

W 101 ST

Franz Sigel Monument

W 100 ST

W 99 ST

W 98 ST

W 97 ST

W94th St

W 96 ST

W 95 ST

R RIVE

W 106 ST

SIDE

TOT LOT 105

W106th St COMMUNITY CONCERNS

CONCEPTUAL PLAN

113

4.09

4.05

4.12

4.15

Remove W 95th Street exit.

Construct restroom at W96th Street tennis courts.

Widen sidewalks in tunnels at W93rd and W 100th Streets.

Install pipe and gravel to drain jogging path and landscape.

TENNIS

VOLLEYBALL

4.08

4.01

101 STREET SOCCER FIELD 4.19 BASKETBALL

4.24

4.14

4.27

SOFTBALL

SOFTBALL SOCCER

4.17

4.23 4.20

4.15 4.13

4.00

DINOSAUR PLAYGROUND

4.26 4.16

Firefighter’s Memorial

4.02

SIDE

TOT LOT 105

DR

4.11

R RIVE

PROJECTS 4.00 Restore Riverside Drive pedestrian zone W96th to W106th Sts. 4.01 Provide a designated scenic bicycle route behind tennis courts.

4.02 New ramp entrance for bikes and wheelchairs at W97th Street.

4.03 Create a dedicated bike path from W97th Street.

4.04 Widen and raise Cherry Walk, install lighting, plantings and improve guard rail.

4.05 Tennis court restroom and storage building.

4.06 Convert the parking lot to an attractive composting and gardening area.

4.07 Convert building to neighborhood fitness center.

4.08 Reconfigure courts for youth sports camp.

4.09 Remove the W95th Street exit. Provide two lanes of car exit on 96th Street.

4.10 Provide continuous walkway on Riverside Drive.

4.11 Restore Riverside Drive, medians and drainage.

4.12 Widen sidewalk under tunnel at W100th Street.

Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

RIVERSIDE DR

4.25

4.13 4.14 4.15 4.16 4.17 4.18 4.19 4.20 4.21 4.22 4.23 4.24 4.25 4.26 4.27 4.28

W 104 ST

W 103 ST

W 101 ST

W 102 ST

Franz Sigel Monument

W 100 ST

W 99 ST

W 98 ST

W 97 ST

W 96 ST

4.28 W 95 ST

4.24

4.22

DOG RUN

4.09

W94th St

VOLLEYBALL

4.07 4.21

4.03

4.10

4.22

W106 St

Install Interpretation of Olmsted era plantings for seasonal beauty.

Install interpretation of Moses era parkway plantings.

Install site drainage under crushed brownstone jogging path.

Restore historic luminaires on the bridge at W96th Street.

Path paving and drainage. (Not all locations shown) Connect path east of highway from W104 to W106.

Climbing wall and novel equipment such as in-ground trampoline.

Install picnic platforms over all train gratings.

Create an adult fitness area.

Restore landscape and provide "Communal tables for picnics."

Restore building and comfort station at W105th Street.

Restore stairs and walls.

Restore Siegel memorial island fences, paving and stairs.

Restore Firemen’s memorial island fences, paving and the stairs at 99th Street.

Reduce road noise: replace expansion joints, repave with asphalt.

Install stop sign and cross walk.

W 106 ST

4.05

4.18

4.14

W 105 ST

4.06

4.04

4.12

SITE ANALYSIS

114

The tot lots on Riverside Drive are not adequate for the population.

There is need for a full size playground and comfort station between W 97th and W 123rd Streets.

Areas of frequent bicycle and pedestrian conflict and collision

Storm drains on Riverside Drive are inadequate for heavy rainfall.

The popularity of the bicycle route and the cross town bike route at W 106th Street feed bicycles to the stairs at W108th Street.

Stormwater enters the park at West 115th Street causing erosion and flooding.

Other bikers enter the park at W116th Street. Both filter through on pedestrian paths to the shoreline bike route.

Basketball

Basketball Basketball

Handball

SOFTBALL

SKATE PARK

Handball

SOCCER

HANDBALL

n, silted

e to erosio a floods du

e

f the park

o This portion

rainage

perative d up and ino

air users.

h le by wheelc ib s s e c c a t o is n

Women’s Health Protective Association

TOT LOT 112 112 Tot Lot

ge ative draina r e p o in d n Kossuth Monument dequate a

ods due ina

Children’s playground Comfort stations on the middle level and skate park

Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

CATHEDRAL PKWY

W 108 ST

COMMUNITY NEEDS

W 109 ST

t

Y

AL PKW

DR CATHE

Tilden Monument

RIVER

The Riverside Drive pedestrian zones from W96th to W113th, have deteriorated pavements, drainage and benches. There are collapsed catch basins or sewers.

Walls and stairs need stone resetting and pointing.

W 116 ST

RIVE

RIVERSIDE DR

W117th St W 115 ST

RIVERSIDE DR

RIVERSIDE DR

DR SIDE

W 112WST 112 ST

is area flo hDR T E ID RS

W106th St

TOT LOT 116

W 114 ST

TOTTot LOTLot 110110

W 113 STW 113 ST

This flat ar

W 107 ST

BASKETBALL

W ST 111 ST W 111

SOFTBALL

COMMUNITY CONCERNS

CONCEPTUAL PLAN

115

3.03

3.03

5.01

O Mid-park play zone with “Playscape”

Restore Riverside Drive pedestrian zone 5.17

5.14

2.15

Basketball

5.05

SKATE PARK

5.19

SOCCER

5.03

Handball Handball

BASKETBALL

HANDBALL

5.06

5.02

5.03 5.231

5.18

5.18

5.07 5.08

5.01

5.13 5.01

RIVERSIDE DR

CATHEDRAL PKWY

W 109 ST

W 108 ST

5.22

W 107 ST

5.00 5.01 5.02 5.03 5.04 5.05 5.06 5.07 5.08 5.09 5.10 5.11 5.12 5.13 5.14

WY

K DRAL P CATHE

PROJECTS

Install interpretation of Olmsted era plantings for seasonal beauty.

New park entrance and ramp that matches the retaining wall construction.

Best location for greenway if Cherry Walk is lost to global warming.

Best location for a future pedestrian and bike bridge.

Restore comfort station and provide promenade level comfort station.

Innovative "Playscape "on the lower level that connects to the promenade.

Install picnic platforms over all train gratings.

Large scale art installations and performance area.

Construct rock rill and water landscape feature.

Construct new path at W115th Street.

Restore Riverside Drive, medians and drainage.

Restore Riverside Drive pedestrian zone W106-110th Streets.

Reconstruct entrance pavement at W115th Street.

Move and restore Women's' Health Protective Association Monument.

Widen and raise Cherry Walk, install lighting, plantings and improve guard rail.

Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

RIVERSIDE DR

SIDE NATURE AND LANDSCAPE DR

5.21SIDE DR

Tilden Monument

W ST 111 ST W 111

RIVERSIDE DR

TOT LOT 116 RIVER

Kossuth Monument

5.11

Women’s Health Protective Association

5.10

RIVER

W 115 ST

TOTTot LOTLot 110110

W 112WST 112 ST

5.23

W106th St

5.12

TOT LOT 112 112 Tot Lot

W 114 ST

5.19

W 113 STW 113 ST

5.24

5.16

5.09

W 116 ST

SOFTBALL

SOFTBALL

Basketball Basketball

Construct ADA compliant ramp at 111th Street

W117th St

5.15 5.16 5.17 5.18 5.19 5.20 5.21 5.22 5.23 5.24

Install interpretation of Moses era parkway plantings.

Restore woodland and ecological health, remove invasive trees. and vines, plant shrubs and understory to provide habitat and food.

Restore sea wall or rip-rap.

Open views.

Expand Skate Park.

Convert W112th St steps to ramps.

Restore Tilden and Kossuth memorial island fences, paving and stairs.

Restore 108-110 island fences, paving and stairs.

Restore stairs and walls.

Restore paths and drainage.

SITE ANALYSIS

116 The Claremont Inn area once had the very best views north to the Hudson River valley. This view has been lost to invasive trees and vines.

Cherry Walk is overcrowded with bikes and pedestrians, The route is not lit or adequately protected by the low and damaged guardrail.

Glare from car headlights in the northbound lane blinds bikers.

Areas of frequent bicycle and pedestrian conflict and collision

The forest requires management for ecological health, habitat and beauty.

WEST HARLEM PARK PIERS

The Amiable Child Monument TENNIS W ST CLAIRE PL

IDE DR

RIVERS

CLAREMONT PLAYGROUND

General Ulysses S. Grant National Memorial RIVERSIDE DR E

ST

RIVERSIDE DR

COMMUNITY NEEDS Children’s playground

Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

W127th St Riverside Drive medians, curbs, storm sewers and islands are in poor condition.

W 131 ST

W

125

COMMUNITY CONCERNS

W 130 ST

SAKURA PARK ButterField Monument

W 129 ST

CLAREMONT AV

TIEMANN PL

W117th St

Japanese Lantern

LA SALLE ST

W 122 ST

W 120 ST

W 119 ST

RIVERSIDE DR

CONCEPTUAL PLAN

117

6.00

6.02

Restore woodland and ecological health.

Consider widening and raising Cherry Walk, install lighting, block headlight glare and improve guard rail.

WEST HARLEM PARK PIERS

6.02

6.17

6.16 6.06

6.03

6.10

Japanese Lantern

SAKURA PARK ButterField Monument

6.07

CLAREMONT AV

PROJECTS 6.00 Restore woodland and ecological health.

6.01 Restore Riverside Drive pedestrian zone W116th-W125th Streets.

6.02 Widen and raise Cherry Walk, install lighting and improve guard rail.

6.03 Reduce the width of the on-ramp at W125th Street.

6.04 Expand playground.

6.05 Restore comfort station and utilities at tennis courts.

6.06 Construct comfort station.

Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

TIEMANN PL

6.08

LA SALLE ST

W 122 ST

W117th St

6.19

6.14 RIVERSIDE DR

6.18 W 120 ST

W 119 ST

6.11

RIVERSIDE DR E

W127th St

6.07 Restore Sakura Park stairs and walls.

6.08 Restore irrigation system.

6.09 Restore Chinese garden and surrounding pavement.

6.10 Remove the sidewalk from the island south of Grant's Tomb.

6.11 Reconstruct the median at W125th St to match Riverside median width and materials.

6.12 Open views.

6.13 Restore stairs and walls.

6.14 Restore paths and drainage.

6.15 What to do under bridge in tunnel?

6.16 Provide playscape.

6.17 Boldly mark bike lane and pedestrian crossings.

6.18 Improve Sakura Park tot-lot.

6.19 Convert volleyball court to bocci area (or other use).

W 131 ST

6.09

125

6.01

RIVERSIDE DR

6.13

CLAREMONT 6.04 PLAYGROUND

W 130 ST

6.00 General Ulysses S. Grant National Memorial

6.15

6.12

DR W

ST

IDE RIVERS

ST CLAIRE PL

TENNIS

W

6.05

6.14

The Amiable Child Monument

W 129 ST

6.12

SITE ANALYSIS

118 The bicycle path frequently intersects with pedestrian crossings and uses such as the gate to the kayak dock and the bicycle racks.

Areas of frequent bicycle and pedestrian conflict and collision

The bicycle path goes under the elevated highway and crosses through an area that needs major improvements to appearance and lighting.

D.O.S. PIER (CLOSED)

HARLEM PARK PIERS

RIVERBANK STATE PARK KAYAK LAUNCH

W

14

5

PKWY

HENRY HUDSON PKWY

W 135 ST

HENRY HUDSON

W 134 ST

RI

HENRY HU

DSON PK

12 AV

VE

RS

ID

E

SOCCER FIELD

COMMUNITY GARDEN

DR

PLAYGROUND

COMMUNITY NEEDS Activity and accessibility for Seniors Dog Run Restroom at W138th Street Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

W 142 ST

W 141 ST

W143rd St The elaborate granite structures and walls from W135th to W153rd Streets require inspection, stone resetting and pointing.

The structure at W138th Street needs a restroom to serve the Community garden.

W 143 ST

W127th St

W 140 ST

Prepared by Planning Division, August 2015

W 139 ST

200 Feet

W 138 ST

100

W 137 ST

0

±

W 131 ST

Bicycle / Pedestrian Conflict

W 136 ST

Trees in need of Management

W 135 ST

W 132 ST

2020 100-Year Floodplain

W 133 ST

Riverside Park SITE ANALYSIS

ST

COMMUNITY CONCERNS

CONCEPTUAL PLAN

119

7.00 and 7.01

7.08

7.05

Boldly mark the bike lanes and the pedestrian crossings in Harlem Piers Park.

Improve greenway markings and lighting under the highway at 138th Street.

D.O.S. PIER (CLOSED)

Restore Riverside Drive pavements, Restore the historic structure andRIVERBANK construct STATE PARK drainage, benches and lighting from a restroom to serve the community at W137th to W143rd Street.

W138th Street.

HARLEM PARK PIERS KAYAK LAUNCH

7.13

7.01

7.15

HENRY HU 12 AV

DSON PK

7.02

7.03

RS

7.10 COMMUNITY GARDEN 7.14

ID

E

DR

7.05

7.12

7.04 7.08

7.06

SOCCER FIELD

PLAYGROUND

PROJECTS 7.00 Mark bike lane and pedestrian crossings boldly.

7.01 Improve the appearance, legibility and lighting under the highway.

7.02 Provide a sidewalk on the west side of 12th Avenue from 138th Street .

7.03 Stripe the bike route from Broadway on 138th Street.

7.04 Restore granite retaining wall and parapet.

7.05 Restore the historic structure at 148th Street and include a restroom and electricity.

7.06 Construct a new dog run.

7.07 Move the ramp to the kayak dock to the main pier.

7.08 Restore Riverside Drive pedestrian zone 137th to 143rd Streets.

W 142 ST

W 141 ST

W 140 ST

W 139 ST

W 138 ST

W127th St

W 137 ST

W 133 ST

7.11

W 135 ST

W 131 ST

W 132 ST

W 134 ST

RI

VE

ST

HENRY HUDSON PKWY

W143rd St

7.09 Move the bicycle rack to avoid conflict with the bike path.

7.10 Provide steel picket fencing on all garden areas.

7.11 Upgrade and expand the playground to the granite wall.

7.12 Pursue obtaining more of this area for park purposes 7.13. Redesign the interior of the Parks Operations center at 138th Street.

Expand locker rooms to accommodate the expanded work force during the Rotunda restoration.

Obtain permission to park employee vehicles in the DEP lot.

7.14 Regrade the path to make it less steep.

7.15 Restore bottom steps and improve lighting at 136th Street stairs.

Protect them from snowplow damage.

W 143 ST

PKWY

W 135 ST

HENRY HUDSON

Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

14

5

W 136 ST

7.00

7.09

W

7.07

SITE ANALYSIS

120 The park has been hard to access on foot, which has hampered neighborhood use.

The north waterfront was developed at a lower standard of landscape. It includes parking lots for a marina that was never constructed.

Areas of frequent bicycle and pedestrian conflict and collision

When the new pedestrian bridge opens, it would be good to have more playfields and playground space as well as a restored restroom.

The recreational areas and comfort station need major improvements and need to be raised for flood protection.

e need tre ell s e p lo s p w The steeand thinning, as gs in pruning nderstory plant uty. as new uve seasonal bea to impro ral areas e v e s e r There a noff is causing W where ru 14 5 sion.

ST ero

The metal stairs and fencing are in poor condition

PLAYGROUND VOLLEYBALL SOFTBALL HENRY HU

SOFTBALL BASKETBALL

DSON PKW

Y

COMMUNITY NEEDS Children’s playground Restrooms at the river level sports fields Senior citizen activities and access

Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

W 152 ST

W 151 ST

W 150 ST

Ralph Ellison Monument

W 149 ST

W 148 ST

W 147 ST

W 146 ST

W143rd St

PLAYGROUND W 145 ST

W 144 ST

RIVERSIDE DR

W 153 ST

Trinity Church Cemetery

W 155 ST

SOCCER FIELD

W155th St

The parking lots have been a long-term problem for the neighborhood due to loud car stereo systems, unsafe traffic conditions and unwillingness of park users to use trash containers.

COMMUNITY CONCERNS

CONCEPTUAL PLAN 8.06

8.04

8.02

8.10

Major landscape and picnic ground improvements.

Construct destination playground with water play and comfort station.

ADA compliant bike and pedestrian bridge to the Hudson River from Riverside Drive.

Restore historic structure and create cafe on top.

8.26 8.09

14

8.23

8.24

8.01

SOFTBALL

8.00

8.04

SOFTBALL

8.19

8.06 8.14

BASKETBALL

8.01

DSON PKW

Y

8.02

8.18

8.08

SOCCER FIELD

8.10

8.15 8.16 8.16

MAJOR PROJECTS

Construct synthetic surface field for softball and soccer/football.

Construct bike route between ballfields and highway extending to Fort Washington.

New bike and pedestrian bridge (in construction).

Move parking lots to new area under highway at 158th street .

Construct destination playground and water play.

Construct 1 new softball field.

Construct picnic grove with picnic tables and barbecue grills.

Restore comfort station at playground.

Construct BMX track and skate area as well as park material storage area.

Construct a comfort station in Fort Washington Park.

Restore structure, belvedere and cupola. Establish a cafe.

Restore woodland beauty and ecological health.

Restore Riverside Drive pedestrian zone W143th-W155th Streets.

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Trinity Church Cemetery

Ralph Ellison Monument W 151 ST

W 147 ST

W 146 ST

W 145 ST

W 144 ST

8.00 8.01 8.02 8.03 8.04 8.05 8.06 8.07 8.08 8.09 8.10 8.11 8.12

W 148 ST

PLAYGROUND

8.12

8.21

8.22

W 150 ST

RIVERSIDE DR

8.20

W 153 ST

8.27 8.11

8.16

8.14

8.17

W143rd St

8.18

8.13 8.14 8.15 8.16 8.17 8.18 8.19 8.20 8.21 8.22 8.23 8.24 8.25 8.26 8.27

W 155 ST

HENRY HU

8.05

8.03

PLAYGROUND

VOLLEYBALL

8.13

8.24

8.25

8.07

8.23

ST

W 152 ST

5

W 149 ST

W

121

W155th St

Reconfigure entrance at Riverbank State Park, restore elevator service.

Install interpretation of Moses era parkway plantings.

Create an “enchanted landscape” as in the “Take Me To the River Plan.”

Open views.

Improve walkway, fences, and stairs. Add colorful gardens.

Improve tunnel lighting and drainage.

Construct a ADA compliant ramp from 166th Street and Riverside Drive.

Create adult fitness area.

Construct senior citizen sitting and activity area.

Restore historic structure, stairs, walls and lighting.

Restore paths, lighting, benches and drainage.

Restore shoreline and add large rip-rap appropriate for sitting.

Install kayak launch and dock, provide storage area.

Provide separate entrance to park material storage.

Restore the toolhouse for volunteer tool storage.

NATURE AND LANDSCAPE PLAN What are the major landscape projects and what should be their character?

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NATURE AND LANDSCAPE PLAN

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What are the different types of landscapes in Riverside Park?

Olmstedian landscapes include those conceived by Olmsted, some designed in his manner, some with Moses era modifications, and some areas that have grown up on their own. They include: Picturesque woodland, Pastoral lawn and Formal allee.

Picturesque woodland areas create a sense of mystery and enclosure. They form partial enclosures of lawns and paths, define spaces, and heighten the beauty of the strolling experience. They serve to direct views, disguise boundaries and make lawns and woodlands appear more extensive. Woodlands are “profusely planted’ with a broad variety of trees, shrubs, understory trees and ground covers in irregular masses. The edges of woodlands are indistinct, with much more variety in shade, shadow and texture than would have been natural. These areas include the oldest trees in the park, some dating from the pre park period.

Moses era Pastoral areas are open lawns and with irregular planted single shade trees or crab apples. There are several areas with significant irregular groves of crab apples which are noted for their beauty and extent. They have become veritable arboreta due to thoughtful planting of other multi-stem cultivars and cherry trees.

In most of these areas the topography was manipulated to cover the railroad tracks, lift and lower the parkway to accommodate pedestrian tunnels, as well as orchestrate acceleration and deceleration lanes for of autos entering and exiting the parkway.

Pedestrian paths resemble the paths of the 19th century French parks

by Adolphe Alphand, such as the Bois de Boulogne and the Bois de Vincennes. The lawns tend to be rather flat and slopes quite regular and steep. Shrubs and groundcovers are planted in large groupings of two to four types.

Formal areas are defined by lines and grids of London Plane trees.

Pastoral lawn areas create a sense of peacefulness. These are These spaces were articulated with stone and concrete pavers, open sunny lawns and meadows with long sightlines that undulate and meander under and through individual trees and irregular groves. geometrical termini and refined granite ashlar masonry walls. In the Some trees have more open canopies with visible branching structures active sports area, from W101st Street to W111th Street, they were treated much like walled gardens in an Italian landscapes, walled off that provide dappled shade, others have lower or more spreading from the rest of the park with refined and ornamented masonry that branches and provide denser shade. Natural features such as rock outcroppings, are partially revealed, stimulating curiosity and creating integrated stairs and structures. destinations.

The Parkway is a graceful roadway significant for its artful sequence of landforms and the Rotunda traffic circle and fountain and seamless Formal allees of closely spaced wide branching trees enable integration into the park design. The Parkway was designed to give a promenading and vehicular circulation. Riverside Park allees are of feeling of exhilaration, imparted by the uninterrupted forward motion three main types, Elm trees Linden trees and London Plane trees.

Each area has a pattern of planting and tree pits bounded and infilled and speed. Its curving, rising and falling enriched the physical experience as well as the scenic experience. The scenography by granite block or 4 inch concrete curbs. included scenic views of the Hudson River and sweeps of colorful Moses era landscapes types and characteristics plantings on sunny embankments.

Rapuano’ s landscapes were the products of the hand of man and machine; defined here as Moses Pastoral, Parkway, and Formal.

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NATURE AND LANDSCAPE PLAN Riverside Park is an amalgam of 19th and 20th Century park designs, rather than representative of a discrete period. It is the result of the evolution of the English Gardening ideal as interpreted by Olmsted and his followers in the late 1800s, and as interpreted by Gilmore D. Clarke and Michael Rapuano in the 1930s. Each park area, therefore, requires a specific treatment:

Riverside Drive and Retaining Wall Riverside Drive was executed in accordance with Olmsted’s plans and retains a high level of spatial integrity. It was rehabilitated with hex block pavers, pipe rail fencing and cobblestones during the 1937 addition. The wood and concrete benches should be replaced with hoof benches.

Olmstedian Slopes The interior of the park between the Olmsted wall and the train tunnel is neither an Olmsted nor a Rapuano landscape. Misdirected execution of Olmsted’s concepts for the design of the interior of the park and subsequent major changes to its topography, paths and plantings during the Moses expansion make design attribution problematic. However, a strip of the original topography and some path alignments that vary in width from 20 to 50 feet remain on the west side of the retaining wall. The layout by Calvert Vaux, among other parks designers, reflects the typical layout of late 19th century urban parks.

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Volunteer Impact In the 1980s a small group of concerned neighbors banded together to revive a neglected and deteriorating Riverside Park. Grassroots volunteers literally dug in and started changing the landscape of Riverside Park. Informed by the horticultural history of the park, grassroots efforts have added interest and variety to plant selection and landscape design not envisioned in previous stages of park design.

The unique culture of volunteerism in Riverside Park has knit neighboring communities to the park, impacting the physical appearance and function of Riverside. It is essential that this spirit of involvement is accommodated in future development. Volunteers can be as creative as they want to be within clear, strong parameters.

Restoration Standards The Secretary of the Interior’s standard called rehabilitation is the most appropriate standard to apply to the lost Olmsted scenic areas due to the importance of the original design and the varying degrees of loss or modification the landscape.

The topography adjacent to Riverside Drive determined the form of Riverside Drive, and although the topography was modified during the Moses era work, it is important to rehabilitate this area in accordance with Olmsted’s intention, which were to provide views of the Hudson river over and through the shoreline Rehabilitation is defined as the process of making possible a compatible use landscape. Preference should be given to native plant material aesthetically for a property through the repair, alterations, and additions while preserving similar to the Olmsted’s landscape design precepts. those portions or features which convey its historical, cultural or architectural values.

Moses Era Landscape • It supports replacement of missing features by creating a new design that: From the toe of that slope to the Hudson River is intact Rapuano designed Represents the spatial organization, features, and materials of the missing topography, paths, flowering trees, and formal allées. Little of the shrub and historic landscape. groundcover layer remain. The Henry Hudson Parkway, the Rotunda and two • Is compatible with the remaining character-defining features of the historic classically inspired playgrounds, Dinosaur and Classic, are architecturally landscape. significant, worthy of restoration.

• Is clearly differentiated. (The Moses era path configuration and step ramps and concrete benches should serve as adequate differentiation).

Interface Between Olmstedian Slopes and Moses Era landscape The flattened lawns and pastoral plantings between the Olmstedian slopes and the train tunnel are spatially important to the adjacent Olmstedian slope and should be incorporated into the larger spatial organization of the Olmstedian park.

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NATURE AND LANDSCAPE PLAN

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How was Riverside Drive modified in the Moses era addition?

In the 1937 modification the designers preserved Olmsted’s design intent and converted the bridal bridle path into lawn panels. They sought to enhance Olmsted’s design by replacing the gravel paths with asphalt hex block, replacing the post and cable fences with pipe rail, and formalizing the tree planting strips with concrete curbs and granite block paving. At the same time, they introduced the contemporary concrete and wood Chrystie-Forsyth bench, which did not convey the same historic appearance as the other elements.

Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

NATURE AND LANDSCAPE PLAN How should Riverside Drive be restored?

Restoration recommendations: • There need not be an attempt to achieve a historically or botanically accurate restoration of Riverside Drive; the existing arrangement meets current usage better than the original; the vocabulary of materials is better suited to usage than the original rustic concrete posts, movable benches and gravel paths.

• Riverside Drive and the wall should be rehabilitated evoking the character of the 1880 park but preserving the basic arrangement of paths and grass panels installed in 1934.

• These areas should be restored using the Olmstedian vocabulary of materials as established in 1935, the pavers, cobbles, pipe-rail fences, and type “B” lamp posts with Riverside Park Luminaires.

• The Chrystie-Forsyth benches should be replaced with the Hoof benches, • The cobra head lights should be replaced with the Bishop’s Crook poles.

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NATURE AND LANDSCAPE PLAN

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How were the Olmstedian slopes modified in the Moses era addition?

Olmstedian slope

Fill

Fill

Slope as modified during addition

Topography provides the key to understanding the extent of the Olmstedian Park that was preserved during the 1937 addition. The park on the east side of the train tunnel was filled in order to raise the grades to meet the higher elevation of the new railroad tunnel roof. This area was flattened. The topography nearest the retaining wall was not changed and its original path system was mostly retained.

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NATURE AND LANDSCAPE PLAN

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Can the Olmstedian Park be accurately restored?

Almost all of the Olmstedian park was modified during the 1937 expansion. Slopes were filled in and flattened, paths were made regular and moved to the edges of lawns. In addition, the landscape character was converted from pastoral and picturesque to a more regularized landscape referred to in this document as “Sculpted.” This is particularly evident in the park from W72nd Street to W79th Street, illustrated on this page.

An authentic return of the Olmstedian landscape is impossible because the topography of the original Park was so extensively altered during the 1937 addition. Nonetheless, areas that were important to the original design should be rehabilitated in accordance with Olmsted’s design intent and precepts.

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How should the disturbed Olmstedian slopes and scenic areas be restored?

• The Olmstedian scenic areas were intended to look natural, to provide an escape from the city and to provide views of the River. In 1937 these sections of the Park were greatly modified to accommodate the needed topography changes.

These modifications were so extensive it will be impossible to achieve a historically or botanically accurate restoration of the Olmstedian Park.

• The Olmstedian scenic areas should be interpretively restored as picturesque sequences of views and experiences in keeping with the tenets of the English Gardening style.

• The existing plantings should be augmented in a manner which demonstrates the critical Olmstedian design qualities while preserving the 1937 vocabulary of paths and stairways.

• These areas should be planted profusely with native plants reflecting the Olmstedian aesthetic. There should be no appearance of gardening or contrivance.

Secretary of the Interior’s Standard for Design for the Replacement of Missing Historic Features “When an entire feature is missing, the landscape’s historic character is diminished. Where an important feature is missing, its replacement is always recommended in the rehabilitation guidelines as the preferred course of action.

If adequate historical, pictorial, and physical documentation exists so that the feature may be accurately reproduced, and if it is desirable to re-establish the feature as part of the landscape’s historical appearance, then planning, designing and installing a new feature based on such information is appropriate.

If adequate historical, pictorial, and physical documentation does not exist so that the feature may be accurately reproduced, then the feature may be represented in a new design that is compatible with the remaining character-defining features of the historic landscape. The new design should always take into account the spatial organization and land patterns, features, and materials of the cultural landscape itself and, most importantly, should be clearly differentiated so that a false historical appearance is not created.”

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What are the distinguishing characteristics of an Olmsted design?

DESIGN CHARACTERISTICS OF OLMSTED PARKS The most succinct list of critical design qualities of Frederick Law Olmsted’s landscapes was written by Patricia M. O’Donnell in “Historic Preservation as Applied to Urban Parks,” which was published in The Yearbook of Landscape Architecture.

NATURAL SPACES Natural spaces were created where park visitors could seem to be completely removed from the artificial and man-made. Naturalistic landscapes containing plant materials and water features were composed to provide this type of setting.

ACTIVE RECREATION SETTINGS STRUCTURES AND SITE AMENITIES Active recreation settings were provided.

Structures and site amenities were integrated Pools for swimming or wading, gymnastics into the landscape through careful placement equipment, running tracks, tennis courts and and emphasis on overall effect. Modest baseball diamonds were among the sports frame or stone comfort stations, maintenance facilities included in the design of parks. structures, stables, picnic shelters and rustic shelters were blended into the park setting. DESIGN FOR HARMONY Bridges, retaining walls and drainage systems Design for harmony of all elements was the were designed with natural or picturesque overall consideration. Each park functioned character. Benches, light standards, drinking as a whole, without attention being drawn to fountains and other site amenities of individual elements. appropriate design and materials were placed in the landscape.

PROFUSE PLANTINGS Profuse plantings were developed in all GATHERING SPACES spaces from casual to formal, and small to Gathering spaces were designed for large large. A broad palette of materials was used, numbers of people. These spaces were with foliage in varying shades of green. Plants often more formal and were designed in included trees of all sizes, shrubs, vines, linear or geometric shapes. They were more wildflowers, ferns, aquatic plants and grasses, decoratively appointed than other parts of the but no showy hybrids. Selection was not parks, with terraces, balustrades, statuary, restricted to native materials but included all mosaic paving, intricate light standards and plants adaptable to the region. The qualities other ornate features. Formal spaces were of each setting were created with plantings; often edged with rows of trees, which blended trees were spaced singly or in small groups away into an informal landscape. on a grassy meadow to produce a pastoral effect; stepped materials were composed Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

in masses to enclose and direct views while defining spaces; dense, varied materials were planted on rough ground creating a dappled light and shade to simulate a wild, mysterious environment.

SPATIAL EXTENSION Spatial extension was achieved through the opening, obscuring and closing of views, forming board vistas and intimate outdoor rooms. The landscape was seemingly enlarged by leading the viewer through a continually changing experience, often in a circuit route.

SEPARATION OF CIRCULATION MODES Separation of circulation modes was provided through the development of distinct systems of uses; pedestrian, bicycle, equestrian, slow pleasure driving and faster through traffic.

Safe intersections of the different modes were designed through the use of grade changes to create overpasses and underpasses. In informal areas gently curving roads and paths were characteristically used.

SEPARATION OF ACTIVITIES Separation of activities was provided through physical distance and/or screening with landforms and plant materials. Provision for varied uses and the clustering of similar uses minimized potential conflicts in use through design for separation.

NATURE AND LANDSCAPE PLAN How should the monuments be restored and enriched?

Role of Monuments in the Landscape The monuments erected in the park in the early 1900’s grew out of the City Beautiful movement that used artistic monuments to memorialize great people and heroic deaths. Today, Grant’s Tomb, the Firemen’s memorial, the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ monument and the Memorial to the 6 Million Jews Martyred are the settings for our city to gather and refresh our memories of our heroes and victims.

Their immediate settings provide a stage for ceremonies and a setting that ennobles and accommodates the gathering. From a distance, the monuments enliven the scenery like classical temples did in English Gardens such as Stourhead.

Recommendations • The monuments should be architecturally restored.

• Monument settings should be designed to accommodate daily used as well as ceremonial occasions.

• Landscapes surrounding memorials should ennoble them at close range and work with the larger scale park landscape.

• Views to and from monuments should be opened in accordance with English landscape design qualities.

• Architectural lighting should serve to enhance the use of the setting and visibility from a distance.

• Monuments should be treated as evocative buildings in English landscapes.

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NATURE AND LANDSCAPE PLAN How should the Williamson structures and Riverside Drive north of 135th Street be restored?

City Beautiful Era The City Beautiful era Neo-Classical structures are one of the defining elements of the Northern section of Riverside Drive. Historic photographs convey open mowed slopes. These have evolved into wooded areas composed of self- sown trees.

Williamson Structures • These elements should be architecturally restored.

• The surrounding vegetation should be thinned to allow them to be seen.

• Uses should be developed for the interior spaces.

Riverside Drive • London Plane trees and Little leaf lindens, hexagonal pavers, granite block planting strips, Hoof bench providing a variety of views including the river, and steel picket fencing should be used.

Slopes • The wooded areas should be thinned and pruned to reveal the most shapely trees and open views of the structures and to the Hudson River and palisades.

• Understory trees and groundcover with seasonal variety should be used to shape views and add interest.

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NATURE AND LANDSCAPE PLAN How should the Moses era landscapes be restored and enriched?

These areas represent a 20th century interpretation of English Landscaping and Parkway. These sections place an emphasis on man-made landforms and structures, creating a setting much more contrived than in the Olmstedian sections of the park.

The 1937 path system represents a regularization of the English landscape path system. It is designed for the topography, land uses and destination of the 1937 plan. These landscape areas should be rehabilitated using the 1937 plans.

The architectural elements should be restored using the 1937 plans.

Moses Era Pastoral Landscape • Use the 1930s landscape plan as a guide to massing of a new layer of appropriate shrubs and understory trees.

• Do not replicate the 1930s shrub and vine vocabulary, as many of those plants are no longer acceptable due to invasiveness and growth habit. Choose plants that are similar in size and interest to the original planting plan.

• Pay attention to the under story and flowering trees and make an effort to understand its massing and adjust the new plantings to shape views and block unsightly additions to the park or off site conditions.

• Use multi stem varieties of middle story trees, not trees that have been limbed up for street tree use.

• Add shrubs and trees that will extend the flowering season and add other interest such as winter and fall color.

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NATURE AND LANDSCAPE PLAN How should the Moses era landscapes be restored?

Formal Areas The Clarke and Rapuano formal areas, promenades, activity areas and playgrounds should be rehabilitated using the 1937 plans.

• Underused facilities should be considered as sites for new uses or the relocation of existing uses from scenic sections of the park.

• The architectural elements should be architecturally restored using the 1937 plans.

• New structures should be constructed using the palette of materials and form vocabulary established in the 1937 plan.

• Modifications, additions and deletions required to address current circulation requirements and experiential concerns should express the 1937 configuration in gesture and sense of the system as a single work of art.

Parkway The Clarke and Rapuano parkway and adjacent landscapes should be restored in accordance with the original plans.

• Evaluate the original planting plans in terms of the plant’s ability to grow in the existing conditions such as shady, sloped areas, heavy use areas, and contemporary blights and diseases.

• Replant parkway plantings in accordance with the original plans, substituting plants of similar character where the original plants are no longer suitable or desirable. Plantings should be in broad sweeps, with large numbers of the same shrubs and groundcovers planted together so their flowers or fall colors are concentrated.

• Plant new trees placed with deference to opening or closing views.

Expand the vocabulary of trees to provide enhanced seasonal interest • Future improvements to the highway should restore the Art Deco fences or use new ones of a style reminiscent of the originals.

• Signs and lamps should be interpretations of the 1937 designs.

Obtain a new type of guardrail that has a better appearance than the corrugated beam guardrail.

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NATURE AND LANDSCAPE PLAN How can the scenic beauty of the park be improved?

The Riverside Park restoration philosophy is to preserve the design characteristics of each phase of the Parks development while joining them into a coherent whole. This approach recognizes the cultural value of each era and allows the restoration plan to be realistic in scope.

In the Olmsted influenced areas of the park it is fitting to use trees, shrubs and ground covers that add seasonal variety, texture and color in a naturalistic way and with a native palette. In the Rapuano landscapes it is appropriate to choose new plants that are of similar character and interest to the original plan in large masses.

This plan recommends the development of themes for each place, consistent with the designers’ original intentions, the attributes and limitations of the setting and our current ecological and horticultural concerns.

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NATURE AND LANDSCAPE PLAN

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What are the other landscape goals?

Landscape Maintenance.

• Create an understanding of the character of the varied landscapes so that appropriate planting and pruning techniques will be employed by everyone working in the park.

• Restore bare slopes. Continue the program of thinning, drainage control, and planting and erosion control to protect these slopes.

• Perform preventative maintenance on the retaining wall, stairs and structures and steel fences.

• Establish a horticulture management plan to maintain the health of historic landscapes.

• Community planting projects should follow the restoration plan.

• Stop the incursion of common invasive species such as Norway maples, Ailanthus trees, White mulberry, Porcelainberry, Bittersweet, Mugwort and Japanese knotweed.

• Increase the tree care program. Create usable habitat for pollinators and avian species by using native plants to provide proper seasonal forage and structure.

Direct the views • Plant shrubs and trees to block bad views and muffle noise from the highway.

• Open views of the River, avoid unattractive sections of the New Jersey shoreline and the Henry Hudson Parkway.

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NATURE AND LANDSCAPE CONCEPT

137

What are the major landscape projects and what should be their character?

Restore seashore plantings

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Restore seashore plantings

Restore beach rose plantings at cafe

NATURE AND LANDSCAPE CONCEPT PLAN

Park Tender site Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

South Lawn

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Restore Crab Apple plantings.

NATURE AND LANDSCAPE CONCEPT PLAN

Address erosion with appropriate plant material Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

Continue to restore the slopes beside the promenade with Rapuano plantings, with attention paid to blocking views of the parkway

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Landscape should frame monuments

NATURE AND LANDSCAPE CONCEPT PLAN

Add perennials to address erosion Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

landscapes with middle story Restore the Olmsteian pastoral areas. Restore plantings that provide visual interest and fall Provide long interior views. color.

140

NATURE AND LANDSCAPE CONCEPT PLAN

Add native perennials to eroded slopes.

Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

Continue the restoration of the Olmstedian pastoral interior of the park.

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Restore Riverside Drive Island landscapes.

NATURE AND LANDSCAPE CONCEPT PLAN

Restore neglected landscape and select plant material to take advantage of full sun locations.

Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

Remove invasives and replant with native plant material to add species diversity and habitat.

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Maintain existing tree canopy.

NATURE AND LANDSCAPE CONCEPT PLAN

Address erosion and restore landscape slopes with native plant material.

Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

Engage community to assist with landscape restoration.

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Restore Riverside Drive medians and islands with period appropriate furniture.

NATURE AND LANDSCAPE CONCEPT PLAN

Construct naturalistic shoreline with climbable rip-rap.

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Restore waterfront landscapes.

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Keep views north from 151st Street overlook open.

CIRCULATION PLAN

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This plan analyzes the pedestrian, bicycle, and ADA problems in Riverside Park, and proposes solutions.

All the bike route changes and proposed projects are subject to additional analysis and review by the Department of Transportation.

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CIRCULATION PLAN COMMUNITY CONCERNS & WISHES:

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TOO MUCH TRAFFIC ON A NARROW WALKWAY • DEDICATED BIKE LANES NEEDED • SIGN SLOW DOWN

• DA

PIER I

PEDESTRIAN AND BIKE PATHS MERGE BOAT LAUNCH

POOR VISIBILITY OF PEDESTRIANS CROSSING BIKE PATH - BIKES GO FAST

RIVERSIDE PARK SOUTH

Hudson River Bikeway

JOE DIMAGGIO HWY

BASKETBALL COURTS

PLAY AREA

VOLLEYBALL SPORTS FIELD

PLAYGROUND

W 67 ST

W 64 ST

FREEDOM PL S

Pedestrians and joggers have a separate path.

Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

W71st St

Bicycles have a dedicated path. At pedestrian crossings it needs marked crossings with signage for pedestrians to look before crossing.

W 70 ST

W59th St

OM PL

FREED W 66 ST

± Prepared by Planning Division, August 2015

CYCLISTS AND PEDESTRIANS TO SHARE W 63 ST

W 62 ST

New Bike Route

W 61 ST

W 58 ST

Existing Bike Route

200 Feet

R

INCLINED RAMP NOT SUITABLE FOR

2015 Circulation

100

W 69 ST

DOG RUN

Riverside Park

0

VD E BL

SID IVER

W 68 ST

W 59 ST

PLAY AREA

CIRCULATION PLAN

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• DANGEROUS BOTTLENECK • CONFLUENCE OF CYCLISTS AND PEDESTRIANS NEEDS TO BE MODIFIED TO PREVENT ACCIDENTS Existing Combined Bicycle and Pedestrian Path Proposed Dedicated Bicycle Lanes

MARINA GATES OPEN INTO BIKE ROUTE

NO HANDICAPPED ACCESS CYCLISTS AND PEDESTRIANS SHARE NARROW PATH WITH MANY CONFLICTS

TO ROTUNDA

PEDESTRIAN AND CYCLIST

OR MARINE WALK

CONFUSION ON HOW TO NAVIGATE THROUGH ROTUNDA AREA

RAMP IS TOO STEEP FOR WHEELCHAIRS

SOCCER FIELD/TRACK

SOFTBALL

SOCCER FIELD

SOFTBALL

CLASSIC PLAYGROUND

SOCCER

BUS LAYOVER PARKING

DOG RUN

CONFLICTS WITH BIKE

BASKETBALL COURTS

Warsaw Ghetto Monument

PATHS ON BOTH SIDES OF

79TH STREET NEUFELD PLAYGROUND RIVER RUN PLAYGROUND

W 71 ST

DOG RUN BASKETBALL

Hamilton Fountain

W 82 ST

W82nd St W 81 ST

W 80 ST

W 79 ST

W 78 ST

W 77 ST

W 76 ST

W 75 ST

W 74 ST

W 73 ST

W71st St

W 72 ST

W 71 ST

Eleanor Roosevelt Monument

Stripe a two-way bike route across the west side of the Rotunda traffic circle and ramps.

Construct dedicated bicycle lanes between the dog run and the softball field.

Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

Extend stairs and provide an archway for bikes to pass through.

Construct bicycle lanes through the scenic area east of the track and softball fields. Improve paving and lighting.

Decrease the grade of the path on both sides of the Rotunda to 3-5% by starting the slope further back.

CIRCULATION PLAN

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• CYCLISTS GO TOO FAST • PROMENADE IS THE BEST PLACE TO TEACH BIKE RIDING • NEED SIGNS TO DIRECT PEOPLE TO THE WATER • PARK Existing Combined Bicycle and Pedestrian Path Proposed Dedicated Bicycle Lanes

CHERRY WALK IS INCREASINGLY VULNERABLE TO FLOODING AND WILL BE UNDERGROUND DUE TO CLIMATE CHANGE BY 2050

TUNNEL SIDEWALK IS MUCH TOO NARROW

POOR VISIBILITY AROUND UNDERPASS, CONFLICT ON CONNECTING PATHS

PATH IS MUCH TOO NARROW

FOR BIKES AND

AND STEEP FOR BIKES AND

PEDESTRIANS

PEDESTRIANS

RKING DOG RUN

BIKE

Warsaw Ghetto Monument

SIDES OF

Soldiers and Sailors Monument

STEEP PATH IS

HIPPO PLAYGROUND

ATTRACTIVE

LAYGROUND

TO BIKES IDE

Existing conditions of shared path between W92nd and W95th Streets.

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Proposed separated path with reoriented benches between W92nd and W95th Streets.

W 94 ST

W94th St W 93 ST

W 91 ST

W 90 ST

W 89 ST

W 88 ST

W 87 ST

W 86 ST

W 85 ST W 84 ST

W 83 ST

W 82 ST

W82nd St

W 92 ST

RIV Joan of Arc Monument

SID

ER

RIV

DR

S ER

R ED

CIRCULATION PLAN

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WATER • PARK PATHS NEED STRIPING FOR BIKES • BIKES ARE TOO FAST HERE TOO • WIDER PATHS LIKE HUDSON RIVER PARK NEEDED

• WOU

Existing Combined Bicycle and Pedestrian Path Proposed Dedicated Bicycle Lanes

TUNNEL SIDEWALK IS MUCH TOO NARROW FOR BIKES AND

NARROW SLOPED RAMP SHARED BY

PEDESTRIANS

BIKES AND PEDESTRIANS WITH POOR VISIBILITY

TENNIS VOLLEYBALL

SOFTBALL

SOFTBALL

101 STREET SOCCER FIELD BASKETBALL

VOLLEYBALL

SOCCER

GENERAL BIKE AND PEDESTRIAN CONFLICT

DOG RUN

CYCLISTS MERGE ONTO PEDESTRIAN PROMENADE FROM 103RD DINOSAUR PLAYGROUND

Firefighter’s Memorial

SEVERS PEDESTRIAN WALKWAY

SIDE

DR

RIVERSIDE DR

W106st St W 105 ST

W 104 ST

W 103 ST

W 102 ST

W 101 ST

Franz Siegel Monument

W 100 ST

W 98 ST

W 97 ST

W 96 ST

W94th St

W 99 ST

R RIVE

CONFLICT

W 95 ST

TOT LOT 105

W 106 ST

VEHICLE EXIT AT 95TH STREET

Consider increasing Cherry Walk width to 14-16 feet where possible. Separate bikes and pedestrians with a planted strip.

Investigate decreasing width of on-ramp at W125th Street to provide more space.

Investigate feasibility of installing flood lights on highway light poles to illuminate Cherry Walk.

Potentially expand sidewalks inside tunnel at W100th and W93rd Streets.

Stripe bike lanes.

Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

Investigate concrete grade beams supported by footings to contain

CIRCULATION PLAN

150

• WOULD LOVE TO SEE SOME AREAS LIKE THE PROMENADE AS A BIKE FREE ZONE EXCEPT FOR CHILDREN LEARNING • NEED TO GET TO RIVER • IT IS THE BIKE PATH IS INCREASINGLY VULNERABLE TO FLOODING AND WILL LIKELY BE UNDERWATER DUE TO CLIMATE CHANGE BY 2050

MUCH TOO NARROW FOR THE AMOUNT OF

STAIRS AT 108TH USED BY CYCLISTS DUE TO

BIKES AND PEDESTRIANS USING THE PATH

PROXIMITY TO CROSSTOWN BIKE ROUTE ON 106TH

Basketball

Basketball Basketball

Handball

SOFTBALL

SOFTBALL

SKATE PARK

Handball

SOCCER

BASKETBALL

HANDBALL

BIKES FILTER THROUGH PARK FROM 116TH

Women’s Health Protective Association TOT LOT 112 112 Tot Lot TOTTot LOTLot 110110

Possible location for future higher elevation bicycle route Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

Potential ramped entrance to park at W111th Street

W 116 ST

DR

W 115 ST

RIVER

W 114 ST

CATHEDRAL PKWY

W 109 ST

W 108 ST

W 107 ST

W106th St

W ST 111 ST W 111

CATHE

SIDE

Tilden Monument

RIVERSIDE DR

W 113 STW 113 ST

KWY DRAL P

t

RIVERSIDE DR

Kossuth Monument

W 112WST 112 ST

RIVERSIDE DR

RIVERSIDE DR

TOT LOT 116

W117th St

Potential location for a bridge over Parkway at W111th Street if sea level rise does not preclude use of Cherry Walk.

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151

RIVER • IT IS TOO DARK ALONG RIVER • CAR LIGHTS CAUSE GLARE • CHERRY WALK PAVEMENT IS COLLAPSING • HIGHWAY IS TOO NOISY Existing Combined Bicycle and Pedestrian Path Proposed Dedicated Bicycle Lanes

POOR VISIBILITY WHERE PEDESTRIANS CROSS BIKE PATH, CONFUSION ON WHAT IS BIKE PATH VS. SIDEWALK WEST HARLEM PARK PIERS

The Amiable Child Monument TENNIS W ST CLAIRE PL

IDE DR

RIVERS

CLAREMONT PLAYGROUND

General Ulysses S. Grant National Memorial RIVERSIDE DR E

ST

RIVERSIDE DR

CLAREMONT AV

Existing conditions of shared shoreline path 100 to 125th Streets

Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

Potential separated bike path with wall to add buffer from cars.

W 131 ST

W

125

Consider illuminating the Cherry Walk with hooded wide beam lights from the Parkway poles to decrease cost and vulnerability to flooding. Replace missing poles.

W127th St W 130 ST

SAKURA PARK ButterField Monument

W 129 ST

TIEMANN PL

W 120 ST

W117th St

Japanese Lantern

LA SALLE ST

W 122 ST

W 119 ST

RIVERSIDE DR

CIRCULATION PLAN

152

• CONNECT BIKE PATH TO THE RIVER • PEDESTRIAN AND BIKE CONFLICT • SLOW BIKES HERE

CYCL

Existing Combined Bicycle and Pedestrian Path Proposed Dedicated Bicycle Lanes

GATE FROM KAYAK LAUNCH

D.O.S. PIER (CLOSED)

OPENS INTO BIKE PATH

T HARLEM PARK PIERS

RIVERBANK STATE PARK

PEDESTRIAN & BIKE PATHS MERGE

KAYAK LAUNCH INTO NARROW BRIDGE PATH

W

5

FORBIDDING AND DARK AREA PKWY

(TENTATIVE)

HENRY HU

DSON P

12 AV

VE

RS

ID

E

SOCCER FIELD

COMMUNITY GARDEN

DR

Improve markings at pedestrian crossing. Investigate alternate bike lanes under viaduct.

Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

Consider relocating kayak ramp and dock. Consider relocating bike rack to less trafficked area.

W 143 ST

W 142 ST

W 141 ST

W 140 ST

W 139 ST

W 138 ST

W 137 ST

W 136 ST

W 133 ST

PLAYGROUND

W 135 ST

W 131 ST

W 132 ST

W 134 ST

RI

W125th St

ST

HENRY HUDSON PKWY

W 135 ST

HENRY HUDSON

14

W143rd St

Improve lane marking and lighting under the highway and railroad. Consider striping a two-way lane from W138th St and Broadway.

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153

CYCLISTS RUN LIGHTS ON RIVERSIDE DRIVE • CLARIFY THE USE OF PARK PATHS • PLEASE RIDE SLOWLY SIGNS Existing Combined Bicycle and Pedestrian Path Proposed Dedicated Bicycle Lanes

DANGEROUS HIGHWAY INTERSECTION NO HANDICAPPED AND POOR PEDESTRIAN ACCESS TO PARK

FORBIDDING TUNNEL WITH CONFLICT ON SHARED PATH / PROMENADE

STAIRS SERVING CROSSTOWN

PATH IS NOT STRIPED W

BICYCLE ROUTE

14

5

ST

PLAYGROUND VOLLEYBALL SOFTBALL HENRY HU

SOFTBALL BASKETBALL

DSON PKW

Y

Potential location for new bike route between ballfields and highway.

Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

Consider converting parking lots to play and picnic areas.

W 152 ST

W 151 ST

W 150 ST

Ralph Ellison Monument

W 149 ST

W 148 ST

W 147 ST

W143rd St

W 146 ST

PLAYGROUND W 145 ST

W 144 ST

RIVERSIDE DR

W 153 ST

Trinity Church Cemetery

W 155 ST

SOCCER FIELD

W155th St

New ADA compliant bridge at W51st St.

154

PROJECT DESCRIPTIONS & DESIGN STANDARDS Describe the most important projects in detail.

Provide project descriptions and budget estimates for all projects.

Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

PROJECT DESCRIPTIONS Restore the Rotunda The Rotunda will be recognized as a space of civic hospitality and celebration.

The Rotunda will serve as a welcoming vestibule to the Hudson River, and a gateway for marine vessels from around the world.

The cafe will be enhanced with restored Guastivino vaults, lighting and restrooms. The concourse and expansive terrace will make this place an oasis on hot days.

The fountain restoration will include the circle of bronze turtles spouting arcs of water to the center as well as an illuminated jet of water visible from Broadway over the top of the parapet.

ADA access will be provided to all levels of the Rotunda structure, designed to blend seamlessly with the historic structure and landscape.

Bikes will have enhanced access to the dedicated bicycle route on top of the Rotunda and to dedicated lanes connecting to W79th Street.

The garage will be dry, illuminated and ADA accessible. Existing NYC Parks maintenance facilities will be enlarged and improved.

Concourse level spaces will be adapted to serve as the park’s operations and administration headquarters with facilities for information and display.

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155

PROJECT DESCRIPTIONS

156

Dredge and Expand the Marina

Proposed area of marina expansion with a wave attenuating pier and space for 100 slips

The W79th St Boat Basin is a 116 slip public marina operated by the NYC Parks. It generates 1.2 million dollars per year in income.

It costs 1 million dollars per year to operate and maintain.

In addition to seasonal slips, the Marina offers 70 moorings, transient dockage for recreational boats, dockage for commercial vessels, a pump-out station, seasonal and short-term parking, and a bathroom and shower.

ing. It supports special events including the New York City Triathlon, swim events, and Dragon boating.

attractiveness to transient boaters. The dredging is estimated to cost $15,000,000 (in 2016 dollars).

The marina must be dredged. Shallow water is jeopardizing the marinas functionality and one million dollars per year in revenue.

Each year, the entire marina experiences longer periods of restricted use due to mud filled channels and slips that damage boats and motors. The failure to dredge is a major issue among customers and the park community.

The Marina has over 700 names on its waiting list for seasonal slips. To meet the enormous public demand for recreational boating and water access, NYC Parks could construct 100 additional slips at a cost of approximately $19,000,000 (in 2016 dollars). The work would include a 385 X 20 foot wave attenuating pier, steel ice protectors, steel and composite pilings, floating docks and fingers, dredging, lighting and utilities.

The recently reconstructed 370-foot public dock is open 6 days a week except durBy dredging the marina, income would ing the winter. It accommodates full-season increase by $160,000 to $200,000 per commercial charter boat docking and board- year, due to its increased usability and Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

PROJECT DESCRIPTIONS

157

Cherry Walk

If in the future it is necessary to construct an alternate route due to flooding or volume of bicycle traffic, this path is may be a route suitable for bicycles

Consider increasing path width

Moses era shrub planting to better pedestrian experience Consider installing a continuous wall for pedestrian protection

Consider illuminating the Cherry walk with hooded wide beam lights from the Parkway poles to decrease cost and vulnerability to flooding

Construct a 30 inch tall warm concrete barrier to provide protection from automobiles.

4’

Pedestrians

1’

Grass

9’

Bikes

Where width of land allows provide two lanes for bikes and a separate path for pedestrians.

Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

PROJECT DESCRIPTIONS

158

Mid Park Play Zone MID-PARK PLAY ZONE Wood platforms for picnicking over tunnel opening

Temporary art play installations and performances that increase place identity

Water play feature New playground with tree canopy platform and climbing net

Location for new temporary uses Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

PROJECT DESCRIPTIONS

159

New Drainage and Enhanced Landscape Character New entrance with wheelchair and carriage ramp at W111th Street

Jogging path with mulch on top and trench drain

Middle story evergreen trees enhance scenic landscape

Small native shrubs to provide beauty and attract wildlife

New entrance and ramp at W111th Street

Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

PROJECT DESCRIPTIONS

160

Reconstruct Riverside Drive and Enhance Island Landscapes • • • • • • •

Maintain the Elm inspection program Plant disease resistant Elm trees with vase shape branching Redesign pipe rail fence for improved durability and ease of repair Replace concrete and wood benches with “City Hall” bench Regrade lawn panels to detain and absorb storm water Replace missing lamp posts with 8 foot tall “B” poles and Riverside luminaires Be cautious with curb and pavement replacement to avoid root damage and root zone soil compaction • • •

Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

• • Regrade Riverside Drive to direct storm water to the median Install new storm sewer near the median Widen the median and increase depth of planting soil for trees

• •

Restore Olmstedian landscapes Replace chain link with steel picket fence Provide landscape irrigation Install Bishop Crook street lights

PROJECT DESCRIPTIONS

161

Drainage Improvements and Green Infrastructure There are several locations in the park where standing water is an issue, either due to the park drainge system failure, or due to an inordinate volume of water.

In these areas it is possible to construct absorptive landscapes and infiltration systems.

The water on the park walkway at the Riverside Drive level bypasses storm drains because the profile of the path has been altered by service vehicles that have removed the crown. Now, water flows in the middle of the path rather than along the curb line where the catch basins are.

At W115th Street, water from Riverside Drive from W119th Street to W103rd Street, and from Broadway to the east pours into Riverside Park. The large volume of fast moving water flows over the curb cuts at W115th Street because they are at the lowest elevation.

Path flooding at the top of the slope.

Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

Path flooding at the bottom of the slope.

It is important to reconstruct Riverside Drive and its storm drains, as well as to regrade the park pavement to direct storm water to drains.

It is also important to modify the interior of the park to take advantage of this improper drainage by redirecting the water to create a unique landscape that will benifit from the water.

PROJECT DESCRIPTIONS

162

Storm Water Infiltation at W115th Street Consider raising the elevation of the pavement ten feet in from the the W115th Street entrance to deter stormwater entering the park from the Drive. On the path just west of the retaining wall, open the western curb to allow the water to flow down the slope; install boulders to direct and slow the water and form pools. At the bottom of the slope, raise the grade of the paths to allow the formation of pools. Replace asphalt with large flat stones to allow the water to pass through.

Raise elevation of pavement to deter flow of water from Riverside Drive

Area where curb would be opened to allow storm water to flow through bolder landscape

W115th Street stairs

Raise elevation of paths above expected elevation of storm water.

Modify the subgrade to make it more absorptive, with gravel or detention tanks.

Install plantings that benefit from periodic flooding and from wetter growing conditions

Conceptual design to address storm water Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

Open curb to allow storm water to flow into bolder landscape

Install a schist bolder landscape that is appropriate for the scenic environment, redirects and detains storm water

Conceptual design for schist bolder landscape

PROJECT DESCRIPTIONS

163

The North Waterfront Construct a new playground with unique play features for all ages of children. Increase the adventure and exploration components in order to increase the number of hours children will stay engaged.

Improve the landscape beauty and access to the Hudson River shoreline. Provide picnic tables and fixed barbeque grills. Consider constructing a bike route that is separate from the pedestrian paths.

Consider moving the major parking lot to the area under the elevated highway at W155th Street.

Construct new bike path between the parkway and the playground, extend it northward to Fort Washignton Park as a separate path.

New playground

Move large parking lot to area under the parkway, improve the small parking lot to serve weekday team sports.

Construct a destination playground with a new comfort station raised to prevent flood damage.

Conceptual design for new playground,bike route and parking configuration.

Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

Conceptual design for unique swings for all ages and family amusements.

PROJECT DESCRIPTIONS

164

Routes and Places for Seniors The Upper West Side is home to the 2nd highest percentage of people over 60 years old in Manhattan. Over 50% live alone. The percentages of seniors in the community is increasing.

Riverside Park needs to be modified to make it more accessible and address the needs of our community’s elders. Improvements could include providing a smooth path to the park with curb cuts, longer walk lights and places to rest while walking.

What physical issues affect an elderly person?

• They have less physical stamina and need benches in order to rest frequently.

• They walk slower and may not be able to cross a signalized intersection with the pedestrian light.

• They may require wheel chairs and ADA compliant routes, benches and restrooms.

• They are more likely to trip on uneven surfaces.

• They have difficulty seeing far away and perhaps up close, and have difficulty hearing when the surroundings are noisy.

Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

Conceptual design for a sitting and activity area for seniors.

STANDARDS ENTRANCES • Create a welcoming atmosphere and provide attractive views into the park.

• Entrances with natural features such as outcroppings and landscapes should have plantings that frame them and benches facing towards them.

• When possible, include native plantings of seasonal beauty placed to be visible from park’s the perimeter.

• Perimeter fencing should be as transparent as possible, yet sufficient to protect plantings from foot traffic and dog urination. Most fences could be a low fence, so that seated people can see over it into the park.

• Entrances are an opportunity for social arrangements of benches.

• Park lighting fixtures should be spaced so as to provide at least one foot candle on the pavement and not cause glare.

• If the surrounding land uses are objectionable in appearance from inside the park, landscape buffer plantings should be installed to provide interest inside the park.

• Seating should be arranged and designed to meet the needs of the adjacent population such a senior centers and day care centers.

• Provide coordinated greeting signage with locator map, rules and space for public notices.

Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

165

STANDARDS

166

SIGNAGE

New Parks signage.

Entrance Signage

Provide free standing greeting signage with orientation maps, rules, space for events postings, as well as contact information for the Parks Administrator and 311 numbers.

Note: The above is illustrative. Any new signage will need to be approved by NYC Parks and the Public Design Commission Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

Orientation Signage

Provide pole mounted orientation signage to popular destinations at critical junction points. Use round poles that allow signs to be rotated to any angle. Signs and poles should be dark color with white letters like Park Standard.

Incorporate: • Major destinations • Restroom locations • Bicycle routes • Beginning and ending places of mandatory leash zones • Locations of dog runs

STANDARDS

167

FURNITURE

Furniture for Olmstedian Areas

• Hoof / City Hall bench with wood slats • Saratoga trash can with rat-proof liner, no door, black • Hex block pavers • Cobblestone tree pits, either natural or flat top • Cobblestone or four inch concrete curbs • Pipe rail or pipe and cable fences around landscapes • Steel picket fence for perimeter

Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

Furniture for Moses Era Areas

• Christie Forsyth benches with wood slats • Saratoga trash can with rat-proof liner, no door, black • Asphalt pavement with four inch concrete curb • Concrete unit pavers, grass or mulch tree pits • Pipe cable rail or steel panel fence around planted areas • Steel picket fence for perimeter

STANDARDS

168

LIGHTING Riverside Drive

Park Interior

• Riverside Drive should be illuminated with Bishops crook poles. The luminaires should use a bulb that emits white light, preferably LED. • All park lights should be controlled by photocells, so they are on when it is dark.

The entire park should be illuminated with Riverside Park luminaires mounted on B poles painted semi gloss black.

• The luminaires should use a bulb that emits white light, preferably LED. • All non-standard luminaires should be replaced with the Riverside Park luminaire • The pole height should be 9 foot in any park area.

• Since the park lighting is maintained by City DOT, and the replacement poles they currently use are taller, Parks should work with DOT to stock the shorter poles.

• All park lights should be controlled by photocells, so they are on when it is dark.

Henry Hudson Parkway

• The parkway should be illuminated with a uniform pole, appropriate for its landmark designation. The luminaires should use a bulb that emits white light, preferably LED. • All park lights should be controlled by photocells, so they are on when it is dark.

Riverside Park Luminaire Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

9 foot “B” pole

169

PRIOR PLANS Describe plans prepared by others that were consulted in the preparation of this plan.

Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

PRIOR PLANS & STUDIES TAKE ME TO THE RIVER

Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

170

PRIOR PLANS & STUDIES

171

North Waterfront Play and Picnic Grounds as designed and approved in the Fort Washington Park Master Plan

Fort Washington Park

Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

2008 Master Plan by Stantec

134

CREDITS

172

New York City Parks & Recreation Office of Planning and Neighborhood Development Alyssa Cobb Konon Nicholas Molinari Charles McKinney John Mattera Crystal Yifan Xing Trey Han Baruch Tauber

Assistant Commissioner Chief of Planning & Neighborhood Development Principal Urban Designer Park Planner Planning Intern Planning Intern Planning Intern

Riverside Park Administrator’s Office John Herrold Margaret Bracken

Park Administrator Landscape Architect

Capital Projects Desmond Spillane Leslie Peoples John Krawchuk

Manhattan Team Leader Manhattan Landscape Design Director Director of Historic Preservation

Community Boards Klari Neuwelt Joel Mentor

Riverside Park Master Plan 2016

CB 7 Parks Committee Chair CB 9 Parks Committee Chair