HARLEM RIVER
PROMENADE
Park Features: Boathouse | Promenade | Greenhouse with Greenroof | Demonstration Garden | Boat Launch Area | Riparian Marsh |
Classroom & Environmental Center | Picnic Grove | Bioswales, Meadow and Lawns | Performance Space | Viewing Platform | and more
The Harlem River Promenade is a conceptual
plan, sponsored by the Bronx Overall Economic
Development Corporation, for the shoreline be-
tween the High Bridge and Washington Bridge
Park (under construction), that creates new
waterfront access and greenway connections in
the Bronx. While just a short distance from the
Highbridge and Roberto Clemente neighbor-
hoods, the site is tucked within the bridges
and hillsides of the Harlem River Valley and is
destined to become an outdoor escape from its
urban surroundings. The proposed promenade
features areas for a variety of recreational park
uses that take advantage of the waterfront site.
The plan creates opportunities for program
partners — a boathouse, greenhouse, and
educational center — to generate year-round
activity.
View of Promenade towards Washington Bridge Park
Promenade Existing Conditions
The Promenade will provide spaces for families
to gather, play, and experience a taste of nature
in an urban setting. A riparian marsh along the
water’s edge will be planted with native grass
species to help restore the polluted shoreline.
Soft meadows and an undulating green wall are
designed to block the view and noise of the
MTA Rail line to the east, creating a contrast
of urban infrastructure and natural texture. A
fishing dock, a picnic area, seating pods, and
lush green lawns are expected to play host to
events from family get-togethers to organized
performances. A shared pedestrian and bike
path traverses the site and connects into the
Bronx greenway system.
Boathouse
Located at the River’s edge, the Boathouse
provides a convenient launch for rowers and
kayakers, secure boat storage, and a center for
rowing. Through a partnership with an orga-
Site plan and renderings by:
nized rowing club, the Boathouse can develop
into a hub of urban waterfront activity with
broad-based programs for youth and adults,
both novice and elite. Sponsored by:
Greenhouse
Responding to a need for nutritional dietary op-
tions in the Bronx and a growing interest in local
urban agriculture, a 4,200 sq ft hydroponic
greenhouse is proposed within the Promenade
site. A partner organization could produce up
to 45,000 lbs of vegetables and herbs per year,
generating a local food economy. Produce can
be sold to local delis and restaurants, as well as
distributed through local Community Supported
Agriculture (CSA) groups. The greenhouse can
also support year-round programs for school
groups and other community organizations. An
outdoor demonstration garden provides area
for community gardening and hands-on educa-
tional experiences.
Education Center
Adjacent to the greenhouse, an education
center with classroom and lab space will offer a
site for teaching restoration, revitalization and
protection of the urban estuary and water-
shed. A program provider will work with school
groups and local residents to cultivate an
active community dedicated to environmental
stewardship and reinforcing the importance of
nature in urban environments.
The Harlem River Promenade will provide
unparalleled waterfront access, recreational
space, and educational opportunity. A col-
laboration of the New York City Department of
Parks and Recreation, Bronx Overall Economic
Development Corporation, and local commu-
nity organizations will strive to further develop
the plan and seek program providers. For more
information contact: Kate Shackford, Executive
Vice President, BOEDC, at (718) 590-3498.
Top to Bottom: Site Plan of Promenade;
View of Greenhouse from lawn