Highbridge Park was selected as Manhattan’s representative project in New York City’s Anchor Parks Program. This effort, sponsored by the Mayor’s Office and NYC Parks & Recreation, invests $30 million in one park in each of the five boroughs of the city. 

An in-depth master planning process was undertaken for the 130 acre park. Community visioning sessions were held, giving voice to the participants’ aspirations. The park’s history and cultural context were investigated from which a timeline of site development was prepared. A thorough inventory and analysis was undertaken which identified recreation facilities, character-defining elements and overall ecology. 

The master plan offers recommendations for long-term and short-term park development. One of the major constraints identified in the master plan is a lack of connectivity throughout the park’s length. One long term goal introduces structured walkways to allow circulation to occur through the entire site. Shorter term goals have resulted in Phase 1 and Phase 2 projects which include a new comfort station, a renovated Adventure Playground, a practice soccer field and the reconstruction of the Grand Staircase in the park’s northern section.