The East Midtown Greenway is an in-water linear park from East 53rd to East 61st Streets that provides public access to Manhattan’s East River where the FDR highway previously dominated the waterfront. Completed in 2023, the nearly half-mile pedestrian esplanade is built over the water, rising above 2100 sea level rise, and links to the larger esplanade system that encircles Manhattan. The design minimizes visual obstruction by utilizing structural interstitial spaces to conceal substantial soil volumes for a robust planting design and to allow large trees to anchor naturally against wind. Stormwater is captured and flows within the structure to passively irrigate plantings selected to withstand the harsh conditions of the location, including salts, winds, and periodic drought.

The park’s design makes the most of variations in slope, elevation, and orientation between the pedestrian and cycling paths to create different kinds of spaces and take advantage of spectacular views along the narrow length of the park.  Project features include overlooks, seating nooks, lush planting, and environmental integrated art from Stacy Levy.

Tours will be led by Amy Seek, Donna Walcavage, and Nicole Ogrosso from Stantec, and Sarah Neilson from NYC Parks.

The meeting location for the tour is not along an accessible route. The 60th street ramp to the meeting location is greater than 8.33% grade incline.