Click here for a printable version of our Public Comments and suggestions with pics.
Public Comments for the High Bridge Public Visioning Meeting
Thursday, May 13, 2010. At P.S. 11 1257 Ogden Avenue Bronx
by Harry Bubbins
Friends of Brook Park is a leading community-based environmental organization in the
South, South Bronx.
We are strong advocates for environmental justice, waterfront access and green space
development. In coalition with over 30 stakeholders we have helped launch the Harlem
River Working Group, now part of the National Park Service River Trails and Conservation Program.
Our interest in the Highbridge is multi-faceted and stems from our decades long engagement with the Harlem River through boat excursions, shore clean-ups and bike tours. We are one of the very few organizations that regularly go on the Harlem River. It is this depth of experience that informs the following suggestions.
A. Each terminus for community use
The Highbridge is not only the structure over the water,
but consists of the two ends in Manhattan and the Bronx.
These resources should be included in the revitalization
plan and provide greater connectivity to the surrounding
communities. The buildings can be used for community
use and educational purposes. With the community in
control of the structures there will be a regular and ongoing presence which strengthens
stewardship and security.
B. Boat launch and habitat restoration at base
We cannot forget the Harlem River over which the
Highbridge stands. Historically boats have always plied
the Harlem River. The original design of the Highbridge
was in fact modified to account for the increase in width of
various vessels. Similarly, the area around the bases of the
bridge ought to be restored with estuary habitat and
mollusk plantings, which enhance wildlife and improve
water quality. In addition, the ongoing landing and
launching of human powered vessels needs to be made easier and more attractive through a beach landing, floating dock or other simple method. Organizations like The Urban Divers Estuary Conservancy need to play a prominent role in this aspect of a successful restoration.
C. Art for All to see from underneath or side
Something colorful and artistic, permanent or
temporary that alludes to the historic purpose of the
Highbridge, the nautical history of NY or to the varied
wildlife to be found in the surrounding environment.
For example, hanging mobiles of local animals in the
style of Alexander Calder commissioned by local
Bronx Artists. The Waterfalls exhibition recently
championed by the Mayor is an example of public art
and bridge interaction.
D. Renewable Energy Technology
To link the past use of the aqueduct with the new
future of renewable energy technologies and green
jobs, the Highbridge restoration should include wind
turbines and solar panels to fulfill all energy needs
for lighting and other applications. Picture the
historic tower of the aqueduct on the Manhattan side
mirrored by a wind turbine on the Bronx side, with a
sheath of solar skin along the bridge. Modern
technology done with respect for the historic
preservation of the Highbridge, vaulting it into the
present.
E. Haste and Transparency and Local Labor
A fire in 1974, closed an old steel railroad bridge across the
Hudson in Poughkeepsie, and now it is a pedestrian walkway.
Once work began, it took 16 months and $38.8 million to
build the 1.28 miles long walkway, which is managed by the
state as Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park. It
includes new LED lighting system that will allow visitors to
cross the bridge at night. The Highbridge needs to be opened
with similar or greater haste. Included in a timely opening
should be a transparent process of the workplan and the
budget with clear outlines of who is getting what and where
the money is going. Finally, a successful restoration will
include a high percentage of local people employed in the
entire project, from scoping and meetings, to design and actual construction.