$50 million pedestrian pathway to connect Manhattan’s High Line to Moynihan Train Hall

Gov. Kathy Hochul unveiled in September designs for a new connector that will link New York City’s High Line seamlessly to Moynihan Train Hall. This will happen via Brookfield Properties’ publicly accessible Magnolia Court that runs through its Manhattan West development. The proposed project will give pedestrians safe, unobstructed access to the Far West Side of Manhattan via two bridges that will connect to the 10th Avenue terminus of the High Line. A public-private partnership comprising Empire State Development, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, Brookfield Properties Group, and Friends of the High Line is undertaking the $50 million project, which will be completed by Spring 2023. 

“Despite the challenges and difficulties presented by COVID-19, New York continues to get things done – building boldly and ambitiously to leave a lasting legacy for future New Yorkers,” Gov. Hochul said. “The High Line’s connection to Moynihan Train Hall and other nearby attractions complements our investments in Midtown West, encourages better pedestrian access and provides New Yorkers with a truly one-of-a-kind experience. New York State remains steadfast in its commitment to building functional infrastructure that improves quality of life, promotes economic growth, and helps secure a greener Empire State.”   

Under the plan, the new landscaped Woodlands Bridge will extend eastward from the existing High Line parallel to 30th Street along Dyer Avenue from 10th Avenue to the mid-block between 9th and 10th Avenues, where it will connect to a second Timber Bridge which will travel north and connect into Brookfield’s elevated public space on the north side of 31st Street, which terminates on 9th Avenue directly across from the Farley Building and Moynihan Train Hall. The High Line Moynihan Connector will offer a safe, scenic experience for commuters, residents, and visitors navigating this heavily trafficked area near the entrance to the Lincoln Tunnel.

Robert Hammond, Friends of the High Line Executive Director and Co-Founder said, “The new Moynihan Connector realizes a long-standing vision and the latest evolution for the High Line to provide New Yorkers with better and safer access to key transportation hubs, and the rapid project timeline meets the needs of a city emerging from the pandemic. The design is an exercise in contrast, with its ribbon of lush green plantings, sustainable wood materials and a traditional, Warren-truss design railroad bridge juxtaposed by the High Line’s steel structure and the modern glass facades of the surrounding buildings. To be a truly 21st century city, we need more environmentally responsible ways of connecting. This infrastructure will allow connectivity from Penn Station all the way to the far west side or West Village with only having to cross one city street. We are excited to be part of this partnership, and look forward to making these connections available to all.”