Feel the gentle breeze whisper secrets of the city. This is Pier 5 Uplands Seating Area. Look around you. This expansive green space is a recent addition to Brooklyn Bridge Park. Opened in July 2017 it added 3.4 acres of tranquil beauty. The lawns slope gently. Terraced levels offer varied perspectives. A grove of trees provides shade. This area is designed as a quiet counterpoint to the lively sports fields and picnic peninsula nearby.
Imagine the scene on opening day. The air buzzed with excitement. Officials celebrated this milestone. Eighty percent of Brooklyn Bridge Park was now complete. Deputy Mayor Alicia Glen spoke of ensuring the park’s future. Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams emphasized access for all. Their words echoed the collective vision. A vision for a place of serenity and healing. A vibrant addition to the city.
But Pier 5 Uplands Seating Area is more than just green space. It’s a marvel of design. Michael Van Valkenburgh Associates crafted its landscape. They used local materials. Rocky riprap lines paths. Wooden benches invite relaxation. Salvaged granite adds a touch of history. The hills gently rise. They offer new angles on the harbor. The views are breathtaking. They stretch out to the iconic Brooklyn Bridge.
Notice the sound-attenuating berm. This 35-foot-long hill helps mute the noise. The noise from the nearby Brooklyn-Queens Expressway is reduced. This thoughtful design prioritizes tranquility. It provides a respite from the city’s hum.
The Pier 5 Uplands Seating Area isn’t quite finished. More amenities are planned. A boathouse with restrooms will open later this year. A new maintenance building is also being constructed. It will serve this beloved green space for years to come. This area is not only for the locals. It is also for visitors from all around the world.
So take a moment. Breathe in the fresh air. Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. This is more than just a park. It’s a testament to the city’s commitment to green spaces. It’s a place to relax unwind. And it’s a beautiful spot to enjoy the stunning New York City skyline. This is Pier 5 Uplands Seating Area. A piece of urban paradise.