Pier55 Inc. and the Hudson River Park Trust (HRPT) this week welcomed the New York State Supreme Court’s decision to allow the redevelopment of Pier 54, now named Pier55, to move forward in Hudson River Park.
The court dismissed in its entirety an action seeking to stop the project brought against HRPT and Pier55, concluding that the plaintiffs’ claims were without merit and that no further review of the project is required. The suit was dismissed on all four counts.
Pier55 will provide 2.7 acres of new public park and performance space in Hudson River Park and offer a first-of-its-kind addition to the park at West 13th Street.
Adding to the park’s environmental programming, arts and educational programming at the pier will feature partnerships with schools and opportunities for emerging local talent.
The court’s ruling follows a decision by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) to formally approve the project on March 31.
“The court did what we hoped, reject completely the claims made by the City Club,” said Barry Diller of Pier55, Inc. “On behalf of Hudson River Park Trust, and all those involved in this project, I’m so glad we can get back to the work: that of building a great park and performance center for the people of New York and all those who come to visit.”
“Today marks a victory for the tens of millions who enjoy Hudson River Park,” said Madelyn Wils, President & CEO of Hudson River Park Trust.
“We’re pleased the judge dismissed the lawsuit in its entirety, and are eager to move ahead with what will be one of the most spectacular public park piers anywhere, yet, happily, in Hudson River Park.”
The Pier55 project, announced in November 2014, was made possible by public-private partnership between HRPT and Pier55 Inc., a non-profit organization established by The Diller – von Furstenberg Family.
Construction on the pier is planned to begin later this spring and completion is expected in 2019.
“What a great day for everyone who loves Hudson River Park!” said Mike Novogratz, chair of the Friends of Hudson River Park. “Pier55 will be a wonderful resource for the Hudson River Park community — and those visiting.”
With an undulating design by Thomas Heatherwick and landscape architecture by Signe Nielsen, Pier55 will provide diversity of green space and plant-life never before seen at Hudson River Park. This will include 35 species of trees, 75 species of shrubs and over 200 species of perennials, grasses and groundcovers, for a total of over 40,000 plants. The pier will also feature three performance spaces, including a unique waterfront amphitheater.
“I would like to thank the community for their support of this project and all of the people who have helped bring this project to fruition,” said Diller.
Pier55 has generated a broad range of support from neighborhood residents, park advocates and arts organizations after engaging in a community and environmental review process last year.
