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A former parking lot looking over the East River at 34th Street will be converted into a temporary public open space filled with community amenities, including an outdoor gym, by spring of 2026.
According to Gothamist, the lot, which "had been open since at least 1991 and ahd space for around 70 cars," had been used by NYU as a private parking lot for $9,492.50 a month in rent.
Owned by the New York City Economic Development Corporation and the NYC Department of Small Business Services, the area will "include ADA-accessible fitness equipment, new furniture for relaxation and community gathering and a waterfront-friendly design," according to an official press release.
The project is part of a larger initiative led by the city and the New York City Economic Development Corporation, aimed at revitalizing the Kips Bay neighborhood through significant investment. As part of this broader effort, Hunter College’s Brookdale Campus on East 25th Street and First Avenue will be transformed into “a new, state-of-the-art academic and life sciences facility,” according to the release. Additional plans include the construction of an ADA-accessible 25th Street pedestrian bridge over the FDR Drive, new accessible open spaces, and more than 1.5 acres of public realm improvements.
“Expanding accessible and inclusive open spaces across the city is one of our top priorities,” said NYC Parks Commissioner Iris Rodriguez-Rosa in an official statement about the 34th Street parking lot. “We’re proud to partner with NYCEDC, Councilmember Powers, and the Kips Bay community to transform this underused site into a vibrant waterfront destination where residents and visitors can relax, exercise, and connect with nature. Projects like this show the power of collaboration in reimagining our city’s public spaces for everyone to enjoy.” We couldn't agree more.