Design Concept Summary
To address significant infrastructure and maintenance challenges caused by water intrusion and to fulfill the public's desire for more accessible green spaces on the Plaza, the central reflecting pool could be reimagined as a great lawn. This new public space would significantly expand the Plaza's seasonal usability, introduce native plants and gardens, and create a new backdrop for everyday use and large-scale events.
Strategies and Principles
- Reenvision the Plaza as a collection of spaces that can accommodate both everyday use and large events, and take advantage of spaces for seasonal activities, markets, and special occasions.
- Create more inviting, flexible spaces for community use.
- Embrace and build on historic character that is part of the Plaza's aesthetic identity, while creating space for more active use.
Implementation
Looking ahead, the Central Plaza Lawn is a long-term project that will be coordinated within OGS's regular capital planning and prioritization process. As part of this ongoing work, OGS is developing a comprehensive master plan to further coordinate proposed improvements to the Empire State Plaza with the New York State Historic Preservation Office.