The High Line, New York, New York, US is an elevated linear park, greenway, and rail trail created on a former New York Central Railroad spur called the West Side Line. This urban oasis runs along the lower west side of Manhattan, offering unique views of the cityscape and the Hudson River.
Originally constructed in the 1930s to lift dangerous freight trains off Manhattan's streets, the railway fell into disuse by the 1980s. Inspired by the Promenade Plantée in Paris, local residents and city officials advocated for its transformation into a public park. The first section opened in 2009, with the final phase completed in 2014.
The High Line stretches 1.45 miles and integrates various design elements, including naturalistic plantings inspired by the self-seeded landscape that grew on the disused tracks. The park was designed by James Corner Field Operations, Diller Scofidio + Renfro, and Piet Oudolf, a renowned Dutch horticulturist.
Several art installations dot the park, with works from artists like Spencer Finch and El Anatsui. Notable features include the Chelsea Market Passage, a semi-enclosed space for food vendors, and the Gansevoort Woodland, which offers a lush green escape amidst the urban environment.
The High Line has also spurred significant economic development in the surrounding neighborhoods, including the Hudson Yards project. It has become a model for urban revitalization, demonstrating how disused infrastructure can be repurposed for public benefit.
One lesser-known fact is that the park's design includes a unique feature called the "peel-up benches," which appear to peel up from the deck itself, offering seating while maintaining the linear flow of the park. Another interesting aspect is the High Line's water feature located at the Diller - von Furstenberg Sundeck, which uses recycled water to create a shallow stream where visitors can cool off.
The High Line is maintained by the Friends of the High Line, a non-profit organization that raises 98% of the park's annual operating budget. This group also hosts various events, including stargazing, movie nights, and guided tours, contributing to the park's vibrant community atmosphere.
In summary, the High Line is much more than a park; it's a testament to innovative urban design, community activism, and the potential for adaptive reuse of obsolete infrastructure. Its blend of art, nature, and history offers a unique experience that continues to attract millions of visitors annually.