“I'm pleased to have played a role in moving Governors Island forward and ensuring it stays open every summer. Now there will be even more open space for New Yorkers to enjoy, just minutes away from Manhattan and Brooklyn, as Governors Island transforms into an extraordinary waterfront destination. “Today’s groundbreaking is one more step toward making Governors Island the center of a unified Harbor Park – a central park for the center of our City,” said Senator Daniel Squadron. “The construction of the new park and public spaces, combined with the already outstanding array of arts, cultural and recreational programs that the Island offers each summer, will ensure that the Island is a resource for years to come.” “Governors Island has become a great destination for Lower Manhattan residents and indeed for all New Yorkers,” said State Assembly Speaker Silver. More New Yorkers than ever will now have access to wonderful new green spaces and be able to gain a greater understanding of the Island’s history through this newly refurbished fort.” “I am proud of the role I have played to make today’s ribbon cutting at Castle Williams possible.
“Today is a fantastic day for Governors Island,” said Congressman Nadler. This renovation has made it possible for members of the public to experience this historic structure, learn about its history through interpretive exhibits, and for the first time, experience an unparalleled view of Lower Manhattan and the New York Harbor from the top of the Castle. Today’s park groundbreaking takes us one step closer to that goal and proves that the Island has not only a great past but an extraordinarily bright future.”Ĭastle Williams re-opens to the public after an extensive three year renovation which was funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, National parks Service Recreation Fee Program, and an appropriation secured through the efforts of Congressman Jerrold Nadler. “In 2010, we promised that our Administration would make Governors Island a destination that New Yorkers and visitors would be able to enjoy for generations. “Governors Island is the centerpiece of our efforts to revitalize New York City’s waterfront,” said Mayor Bloomberg. Mayor Bloomberg was joined for the event at the Battery Maritime Building by Congressman Jerrold Nadler, State Senator Daniel Squadron, Council Member Margaret Chin, Commissioner of the National Parks of New York Harbor Maria Burks, Trust for Governors Island President Leslie Koch and Governors Island National Monument Superintendent Patti Reilly. In addition to the 30 new acres, Phase 1 adds new welcome areas, a re-graded Parade Ground and key visitor amenities, including lighting, seating and signage throughout the Historic District. The 30 new acres of park now under construction include Liggett Terrace, a sunny, six acre plaza with seasonal plantings, seating, water features and public art Hammock Grove, a sunny ten acre space that is home to 2,000 new trees, play areas and hammocks and the Play Lawn, 14 acres for play and relaxation that includes two turf ball fields sized for adult softball and Little League baseball. The Governors Island Park and Public Space Plan was designed by the acclaimed landscape design firm West 8, with extensive input from the public. Bloomberg today broke ground on the new park and public spaces on Governors Island, announced the opening of the newly rehabilitated Castle Williams and kicked off the 2012 season on the Island, which opens to the public on Saturday.
Governors Island Opens for Season on May 26th with Full Schedule of Programs Construction Begins on 30 New Acres of Park and Public SpaceĪ Newly Rehabilitated Castle Williams Opens to the Public after Extensive Three-Year Renovation