A Trip to NYC's Spectacular New Governors Island

Governors Island recently re-opened to the public after a massive remake into a destination park. Among other things, it contains an historic district with stately old homes and trees, a bicycle trail circling the island, children's play areas, and four man-made hills offering spectacular views of NYC's skylines and bridges. It can only be reached by ferry or private boat but it's less than a ten minute ride. Writes Carol Berens, a former Empire State Development Corp. VP turned author and real estate sales professional: 

The plan consists of 87 acres—the Historic District (33 acres) and new park and public spaces (40 acres). The remaining acreage [the island is 172 acres] is slated for commercial development, as yet unannounced.

The $250 million master plan (funded by New York City’s capital plan) was divided into two phases: Phase One, started in 2012 and opened to the public in 2014, added amenities and public spaces such as a food concession plaza, a hedge maze, a 10-acre lawn and play areas including the Hammock Grove, ball fields and relaxation areas as well as new bike paths that snake through the island. The Historic District received signage, lighting and visitor services. Phase Two, called The Hills, not only includes the manipulated landscape, but playground sliding ponds and some site-specific art.

For more about Carol's observations and photos, see source article.