See What Manhattan's First Beach May Look Like

MEATPACKING DISTRICT, NY — A glimpse of Manhattan's first beach was revealed in an artist's renderings shared by the Hudson River Park Trust this week.

The Trust is planning to revitalize the Gansevoort Peninsula, which up until last year was used for Department of Sanitation parking, into a small beach with a playing field and lounging space, according to the images.

The 5.5-acre strip of land along the Hudson River won't be open for swimming, but can be used for kayaking and environmental programs, according to the Trust.

"The driving inspiration behind this concept is the idea of creating habitat that links back to the estuary and to connect people to the river and local wildlife," the Trust's president Madelyn Wils said in a statement.

The design for the peninsula, located between Gansevoort and Little West 12th streets in the Meatpacking District, has yet to be finalized but construction is expected to kick-off in late 2020 and finish by mid-2022, the Trust said.

"We look forward to finalizing the design, working with the community, and getting the project underway," Wils added.

The preliminary plan includes the beach with kayak access on the south side, a lawn with seating to the north, a sports field, a salt marsh on the north side, and picnic tables and lounge chairs on the western edge.

The playing field area, a concern among neighbors who have been wary of the future of the popular sports fields on Pier 40, could be between 1.4 and 1.6 acres.

The $50 million peninsula project is a part of larger string of development in the massive park on Manhattan's westside.

Pier 26 in Tribeca, which will also have sports fields, and Piers 55 and 57 are under construction. Pier 40's piles are currently being renovated. In addition to Gansevoort Peninsula, Pier 97 in Hell's Kitchen is also being redesigned.

A schematic design of Gansevoort Peninsula will be reviewed at community meetings once finalized.

Dates for future meetings have not yet been set.

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