LPC to Review Plan to Build New Public Open Space Under the Brooklyn Bridge

A fenced-off plot directly underneath the Brooklyn Bridge may soon be transformed into a new public space called Brooklyn Bridge Plaza, joining together the acres of parkland on either side.

The proposal to alter and expand the two acres of public space, designed by Michael Van Valkenburgh Associates for Brooklyn Bridge Park, is set to be heard by the Landmarks Preservation Commission on Tuesday, May 19.

In addition to opening up the area under the bridge, the plan calls for new paving, seating, lighting, security bollards and plantings on either side of the bridge. A lawn and planting beds will break up the concrete expanse, which will be tinted blue.

Also incorporated into the design is a lintel salvaged from the Purchase Building, a late Art Deco storehouse built for city use in 1936. Located within the Fulton Ferry Historic District at 11 Water Street, the Purchase Building was demolished in 2008, with LPC approval, to clear the way for more open space and the long-planned vision of uniting the two portions of Brooklyn Bridge Park.

Renderings show the former building site will be paved with concrete pavers, mimicking the span of the Brooklyn Bridge above. Park visitors will be able to get an impressive, up-close view as they amble to the green space on either side.

If the plan is approved, construction is supposed to start in late fall and wrap in 2021, according to Brownstoner sister pub Brooklyn Paper. The plan already received unanimous approval from Community Board 2 in April.

If you want to attend the LPC hearing on Tuesday, you can participate virtually. Public testimony is taking place via Zoom and the hearing will also be livestreamed on the LPC’s YouTube channel. Adjusting to the pandemic, the LPC kicked off virtual hearings on April 21. For full instructions on virtual access, see the LPC info page online.

[Photos and renderings by Michael Van Valkenburgh Associates via Landmarks Preservation Commission]

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• Landmarks Preservation Commission Set to Launch Virtual Public Hearings
• 1936 Purchase Building Slated for Demo
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