Hudson Yards is a large-scale real estate development in the Chelsea and Hudson Yards neighborhoods of Manhattan, New York. It is one of the most ambitious urban development projects in the United States. Covering approximately 28 acres, Hudson Yards is built over a working rail yard. This area is part of the West Side Yard, located between 10th and 12th Avenues from West 30th to West 34th Streets.
One of the central features of Hudson Yards is The Vessel, a honeycomb-like structure designed by British designer Thomas Heatherwick. It consists of 154 interconnected flights of stairs, offering visitors unique views of the city. The development also includes the Shed, an innovative cultural center with a movable outer shell that can accommodate various types of performances and exhibitions.
Hudson Yards boasts the highest outdoor observation deck in the Western Hemisphere, known as Edge. It stands at 1,131 feet and provides panoramic views of New York City. The area is also home to several luxury residential buildings, office spaces, and the Shops & Restaurants at Hudson Yards, which offer high-end shopping and dining experiences.
A hidden fact about Hudson Yards is its use of a complex waste management system known as the "trash vacuum." This system uses a series of underground pneumatic tubes to transport waste out of the development, thereby reducing the need for garbage trucks and promoting a cleaner environment.
The development of Hudson Yards was made possible through a partnership between the Related Companies and Oxford Properties Group. It is considered one of the largest private real estate developments in the history of the United States, with a projected cost of around $25 billion. The project also includes significant investments in infrastructure, such as the extension of the 7 Subway Line to 34th Street-Hudson Yards station, which opened in 2015.
The area is rich in public art installations, including works by internationally renowned artists. For example, artist Jaume Plensa's sculpture, "Voices," is prominently displayed in the Public Square and Gardens. The development also emphasizes sustainability, incorporating green building standards and environmentally friendly practices.
Hudson Yards has become a significant cultural and commercial hub in Manhattan, attracting tourists, residents, and businesses alike. It represents a modern vision of urban living, combining luxury, innovation, and sustainability in one of the world's most iconic cities.