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Connecting to the Water, Connecting Communities

The Harlem River Greenway is the City’s $309M project to bring new open space, waterfront access, and a renewed seawall to the communities of Upper Manhattan—from East Harlem to Inwood.

The Next Phase of the Manhattan Waterfront Greenway

Part of the broader Manhattan Waterfront Greenway initiative to create a 32.5-mile ring of green space around the entire island of Manhattan, the Harlem River Greenway involves three sequences of improvements. The first section between 125th and 132nd Streets involves a reconstructed seawall, new pathways for pedestrians and bikes, as well as a brand new seven-block waterfront park, celebrating and reflecting the neighborhood’s rich culture and heritage. The second and third sections, between 132nd and 145th Streets, and then again between 155th Street and Swindlers Cove, will involve the repair and reconstruction of various types of seawall that once lined the historic Harlem Speedway when it was first constructed a century ago.

Aerial view of the Harlem River Greenway under the RFK Bridge and Willis Avenue Bridge, with green spaces and buildings along the water.

Park Rendering

The Third Avenue bridge spans the Harlem River, with several cars traveling across the Harlem River Drive, showcasing a busy transportation route and the soon to be park below.

Current view at 127th Street from Willis Avenue Bridge

NYCEDC Harlem River Greenway Park South Lawn Rendering

Park South Lawn Rendering

The new park will feature:

  • Separate paths for pedestrians and cyclists
  • Lawns, native plantings, and art
  • Excellent views of Randall’s Island and the Bronx
  • Playground, picnic, and barbecue areas

The Harlem River Greenway will enable neighborhood residents to bike, walk, and play along the waterfront—connecting them to the air, water, and community.

Critically, the new park design will strengthen and repair over four miles of bulkhead along the Harlem River, making the community more resilient and protecting the shoreline against the effects of sea-level rise.

Key Documents
  • Manhattan Greenway Harlem River Sub-Project Area 2 - Preliminary Design September 7, 2023
  • Manhattan Greenway Harlem River Community Board 11 Presentation September 1, 2022
  • Manhattan Greenway Harlem River Community Board 11 Presentation May 5, 2022
  • Manhattan Waterfront Greenway Brochure
  • Manhattan Greenway – Harlem River Community Board 11 Update

Want to discover more about this historic City initiative?