High Line

In a city as densely populated as New York, it can feel stifling in this concrete jungle. However, city planners and residents are working to change this by adding more green spaces. The High Line is the result of such efforts. What was once an elevated freight train rail is now a pleasant community park on Manhattan’s West Side.

History

In the mid-1800s, freight trains were the primary means of logistics for the city’s infrastructure. However, ground-level trains were creating a danger for the people living in the city. By 1910, more than 540 people had been killed by trains, and 10th Avenue was referred to as “Death Avenue” by the locals.  

The solution was to raise the trains. In 1933, the first train began running on the High Line. Operations were essential for bringing millions of tons of produce, dairy, and meat into the city. Unfortunately, technology and progress eventually rendered the trains obsolete, and the High Line was abandoned. For many years it was left to deteriorate. However, in the 1980s and 90s, conversations began to figure out what to do with the decaying train tracks. Thankfully, a group of dedicated people saved the line and gave it new life. The park officially opened in 1999.  

The Park  

Today, the High Line is a public park. It is a continuous 1.45-mile-long greenway. Over 500 species of trees and plants thrive in the park. This creates the perfect space for hosting community engagement programs, art classes, performances, and many other activities.

Tiffany & Co. Foundation Overlook 

Gansevoort St.

In the 1980s, the Southern end of the High Line was demolished and removed to make room for apartment construction. This created a sudden and dramatic end to the High Line. During renovations, this was embraced and turned into a dramatic balcony. Today, it is a small event space perfect for private dinners, intimate receptions, or small public events. The lush greenery creates a sense of privacy, while the LED lighting creates the ideal ambiance.  

Chelsea Market Passage  

Between 15th St. and 16th St. 

The National Biscuit Company (Nabisco) once had its headquarters along the High Line rail line. Today, the space is the home of the Chelsea Market. The High Line Park runs right next to this open-air market. You can buy gourmet food items, clothing, and various services from April to October. The Chelsea Market Passage is a perfect complement with its open yet covered space. In addition, it’s available for events.  

Crossroads 

At 30th St. 

This section of the High Line is the widest. This and the multiple seating options make it the perfect gathering and event space.  

Pershing Square Beams  

At 30th St. 

In this park area, the concrete paving stops to reveal the original steel framework of girders and beams that supported the train tracks. To turn the metal beams into a safe play area, the metal has a silicone coating.  

CSX Transportation Gate  

At 34th St. 

This is considered one of the main entrances to the park. It is the only place where the High Line comes down to street level.  

How To Visit  

The park is open to everyone and free to use. It is open seven days a week from 7 am to 10 pm. There are several entrances throughout the elevated park. Simply locate one, and start your adventure. 

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