The New York City Department of Transportation (NYC DOT) recently announced the next step to put the ‘park’ back in Park Avenue with the selection of Starr Whitehouse Landscape Architects and Planners LLC as the design firm to redesign Park Avenue between East 46th Street and East 57th Street.
The firm has secured an 18-month contract to help DOT develop a comprehensive, community-focused vision for the corridor. The redesigned Park Avenue will include a wider median, pedestrian improvements, seating areas, planting, and innovative streetscape features. This section of Park Avenue is located directly above the Grand Central Terminal Train Shed, which is currently being extensively rehabilitated by the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA)’s Metro-North Railroad. While the MTA focuses on replacing and waterproofing the train shed structure, NYC DOT is concurrently working on a project to transform this part of the avenue into a greener, safer, and more pedestrian-friendly corridor. This initiative supports the city’s broader plan to reimagine major commercial streets such as Fifth Avenue by increasing public spaces and improving safety for all users.
The public engagement process will be the next major milestone in the Park Avenue redesign. As part of its 18-month contract, Starr Whitehouse Landscape Architects and Planners LLC will work closely with NYC DOT to lead a series of public engagement events aimed at gathering input from New Yorkers, commuters, local businesses, and other key stakeholders. This collaborative process will help shape the design vision for the corridor and ensure it reflects the needs and aspirations of the surrounding community. Informed by this feedback, the firm will also develop a ‘kit of parts’—a customizable set of design elements such as landscaping, seating, public art, and other pedestrian-focused amenities to be incorporated into the redesigned median. In addition, the firm will develop conceptual designs for drainage, irrigation, and pedestrian security measures, producing a final report of the community-informed design guidelines.
The redesign is funded through the East Midtown Governing Group, created as part of the 2017 Greater East Midtown Rezoning. The rezoning established a framework in which new commercial developments and the transfer of development rights are required to contribute to nearby public realm improvements—making transformative projects like this possible.
18-Month Contract Will Support Public Engagement, Roadway Analysis, and Streetscape Design Toolkit.
