Bronx Kill

Gazing across the Bronx Kill, it’s hard to imagine this narrow strait was once a much wider waterway. The Bronx Kill, separating the Bronx from Randalls Island, connects the Harlem River to the East River. Originally, it spanned an impressive 600 feet. Think of it! A wide expanse of water, bustling with activity. In the early 20th century, grand plans were afloat. The War Department envisioned dredging a 24-foot deep channel, 480 feet wide, to accommodate larger vessels. This spurred the construction of impressive bridges. The New York Connecting Railroad built a movable bridge on the approach to the Hell Gate Bridge, anticipating increased traffic across the Bronx Kill. Even the Triborough Bridge’s truss bridge over the Bronx Kill was designed for conversion into a lift bridge. However, these ambitious plans never fully materialized. Much of the Bronx Kill was filled in, significantly narrowing the waterway. The parkland on Randalls Island expanded, but the Bronx Kill became a shadow of its former self. Today, the Bronx Kill offers a unique experience for kayakers and other small boaters. Free from large vessel traffic, it’s a peaceful escape on the water. But beware the tides! At low tide, parts of the Bronx Kill completely bottom out. Muddy stretches and forgotten debris emerge, a testament to the waterway’s changing fortunes. The Randalls Island Connector, with its low air draft, further restricts navigation. As a result, commercial vessels avoid the Bronx Kill. Local businesses rely on road and rail transport, including the Oak Point Link along the north bank. The Bronx Kill’s history also holds intriguing tales of unrealized projects. In 2001, a pedestrian bridge linking the Bronx and Randalls Island was proposed. The New York Power Authority offered to fund the project as compensation for building new power plants in the South Bronx. Ultimately, this plan was abandoned in favor of improving the Triborough Bridge path. A more recent addition is the $6 million Randalls Island Connector bridge. Opened in November 2015, this pedestrian and bicycle bridge sits beneath Amtrak’s Hell Gate Bridge, providing access between Randalls Island and the Port Morris neighborhood of the Bronx. So, the next time you find yourself by the Bronx Kill, take a moment to appreciate its quiet beauty and the echoes of its vibrant past.