Mean to Lean:

The Governors Island Park and Public Open Space Project

172-acre island in the middle of New York Harbor, only 800 yards from Financial District, Manhattan and 400 yards from Brooklyn

92-acre Historic District featuring stately trees, handsome buildings, rolling lawns, forts, and “antique” infrastructure.

80 non-historic acres on landfill featuring amazing views of the Statue of Liberty, and a lot of derelict buildings.

Only accessible by boat.

(It’s not the one with the tram)

Former military base, first opened to the public in 2005

where New Yorkers encounter all forms of culture, educational, not-for-profit and commercial resources

The Trust for Governors Island has transformed it into lively and loved destination . . .

Where New Yorkers encounter all forms of culture,

educational, not-for-profit and commercial resources

The City has invested almost $300M in restoring the Island’s infrastructure, including potable water and 2.2 miles of seawall

And along with private support, The Trust and CM Turner Construction are creating more than 40 acres of new and restored parks and public open space

The first 30-acres opened in 2014.

The park is phenomenal, but the process. . .

Former military base, first opened to the public in 2005

Next phase: The Hills. $70M of dirt, verticality and hubris. A new landmark in New York Harbor.

Doug Cooper, TCCO: “Let’s do it differently this time.”

Solicited and collected more than 3,000 Post-It™ notes

People said:

• “Lots more hammocks!” • “Keep it car-free” • “Outdoor sculpture everywhere!” • “Yay for biking!” • “Playgrounds for big people”

No convincing necessary. (We already have 3,000 post-it’s of our own).

Collaboration, collegiality, kumbaya.

Results?

We are ahead of schedule.

We have budget Zen.

Antacid consumption is down.

Morale is up.

Thank you.