Once an “eyesore” now a plaza with potential. Welcome to Anchorage Plaza. This space near the Brooklyn Bridge is transforming. For years, Anchorage Plaza served practical but uninspiring roles. It was a public parking lot. Later, the Department of Transportation used it for vehicle storage. But Anchorage Plaza has a richer history.
From 1983 to 2001, Anchorage Plaza hosted “Art in the Anchorage”. This annual art show filled the space under the bridge with creativity. National security concerns ended the show. Now, Anchorage Plaza is poised for a new chapter. The city plans to reopen this space to the public. It will be the first time in 15 years.
Imagine this area buzzing with activity. The city is seeking contractors to operate a seasonal outdoor activity center. This transformation could last up to six years. The nearly 100000-square-foot Anchorage Plaza sits at Old Fulton Street and Washington Street. Ash Alley connects the lots beneath the bridge ramp.
What kind of activities might you find here? Proposals include paddle ball, public art, and performances. A dog run and food vendors are also possibilities for Anchorage Plaza. Even food trucks could join the mix. This is all to bring creative activations to this slice of Downtown Brooklyn.
Jimmy Ng from the DUMBO Action Committee expressed excitement. He said Anchorage Plaza had been an eyesore. Seeing it empty with only a few trucks was heartbreaking. The reopening of even half an acre will be massive.
NYC Parks officials presented initial ideas to Brooklyn Community Board 2. Pickleball courts, a cafe, an art gallery, flea markets, and micro-mobility parking were mentioned. A Parks representative hoped to open the space in 2024. However, officials stated that it was too early to set a definite date.
Even with these new plans, the Department of Transportation can still access the space. A 50-foot buzzer zone will allow them to work on the bridge. Transportation officials also presented proposals for a redesigned Anchorage Plaza. This was part of the city’s plan to reconstruct the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway.
David Cerron, Assistant Commissioner for Business Development and Special Events, clarified the short-term focus. Larger overhauls are still years away. Fencing will likely remain to secure the space overnight.
Anchorage Plaza is more than just open space. It is a place with a past and a future. It is a place where art, recreation, and community converge. Keep an eye on Anchorage Plaza. It is set to become a vibrant public space once again.