Hi-Lo Line Wilderness Park 

Repurposing a largely derelict elevated rail line, this radical proposal for environmental restoration in the heart of New York anticipates a long-term evolution of space into an ecologically productive natural habitat.

It suggests a 50-year strategy for boldly applying broad ecological and regional concerns to a specific urban setting. The project juxtaposes voyeuristic relationships of nature to the dense above and below ground infrastructure of the city, catalyzing the redevelopment of New York’s Westside. Specific habitats of flora and fauna cultivate, evolve, and connect New York’s existing waterfront ecologies to the site.

Fabricating a contemporary wilderness for the contemporary metropolis, the HI-LO LINE extends north below grade from 34th to 59th Streets, planting 30 acres of nature in entirety. Root depth is created above the rail deck with elevated planter boxes. Dispersing, flocking and changing in height, these planters vary the topography, habitats, biotopes and activities. Weaving through this topography, are a series of circulation paths, allowing for the connection and separation of hikers and bicyclists, outdoor amphitheaters, vistas and access points.

Client
Friends of the High Line

Location
New York NY

Program
Urban park/ industrial re-use master-plan

Area
121,406 m² (1,306,814 ft²)

Kep person
Andrew Heid

Distinction
Awarded the Designing The Highline Wildflower Award