ANDREW HASWELL GREEN PARK, PHASE 2B

Andrew Haswell Green Park, a multi-phased waterfront project on the East River between East 60th and East 62nd Street, sits in a dynamic urban infrastructural setting. Located below the Queensboro Bridge and east of the FDR, the Roosevelt Island Tramway western line tower straddles the York Avenue overpass to create a dramatic park entrance.

Phase 2B includes the rehabilitation of the existing overpass and ramp for pedestrian and bicycle access to the park’s esplanade level, the creation of a new stepped marine platform that will support terraced plantings, a grand staircase with seating steps, and a new open lawn area. ABB was responsible for the site grading, planting design, and automatic irrigation design. 

The planting palette includes native and adapted species selected for the specific waterfront conditions. Terraced gardens and gently sloping lawns buttress a combination of precast concrete seating blocks and monumental stairs that step gradually down to the esplanade. The varying heights of stacked seating blocks give opportunities to take in the sweeping riverfront views. Low retaining walls between planted terraces serve as additional seating and a large lawn expanse offers space for passive recreational activities and waterfront views.