The proposed Harlem River Promenade is a waterfront site in the Bronx tucked within the bridges and hillsides of the Harlem River Valley. While challenged by topographical and infrastructural barriers, the site can become a unique destination for non-industrialized purposes and re-capture the dramatic historic and natural beauty of the Harlem River Valley. Starr... Continue Reading
The proposed Harlem River Promenade is a waterfront site in the Bronx tucked within the bridges and hillsides of the Harlem River Valley. While challenged by topographical and infrastructural barriers, the site can become a unique destination for non-industrialized purposes and re-capture the dramatic historic and natural beauty of the Harlem River Valley. Starr Whitehouse, teaming with Perkins + Will, developed a conceptual plan to transform the site into public space. Building from ideas and goals established at two community workshops, the proposed Promenade holds several distinguishable programs and recreational park uses that utilize the site’s direct waterfront access and provide spaces for families to gather, play, and experience a taste of nature in an urban setting. A riparian marsh along the water’s edge will be planted with native grass species to help restore the polluted shoreline. A shared pedestrian and bike path traverses the site and connects into the Bronx greenway system. The plan also creates opportunities for program partners — a boathouse, greenhouse, and educational center — to generate year-round activity.
