Will Underground Parks See the Light of Day?
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The proposed Lowline in Manhattan’s Lower East Side is an ingenious idea to redevelop an acre of abandoned trolley tracks into a public park sporting live plants and trees. The former Williamsburg Trolley Terminal originally opened in 1903 and closed in 1948 when trolley service was discontinued. The subterranean space still retains some of its authentic charm in the form of cobblestones, crisscrossing rail tracks and vaulted ceilings.
How will they overcome the existing dingy atmosphere? A series of innovative high-tech solar optics will bath the underground space in sunlight. The intent of the new park is to create a social and cultural hub featuring a retail district, special events and youth-oriented activities.
Currently, the MTA owns the property, but support from the city and the community is growing strong to transform it into much needed green space. Fundraisers to support the 501(c)(3) organization’s huge project include a recent spring concert benefit and an upcoming Anti-Gala dinner in October.
Learn more from TheLowline.org
Tag(s): Green Design, Historic Preservation, Reclaimed Materials
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