After three years of construction and decades of community advocacy, the High Line’s northern extension officially opens to the public today, completing the final link in New York City’s most celebrated elevated park.
The new half-mile segment extends the park from its previous terminus at 34th Street and 12th Avenue to the newly renovated Javits Center, creating a seamless pedestrian corridor from the Whitney Museum in the Meatpacking District to the convention center complex.
“This final piece transforms the High Line from a neighborhood amenity to a true urban connector,” said Parks Commissioner Maria Rodriguez at this morning’s ribbon-cutting ceremony. “Visitors can now walk above street level from the arts district through Chelsea’s gallery row and Hudson Yards to one of our city’s premier event venues.”
The extension features several design innovations that distinguish it from earlier sections of the park. Three new access points include a dramatic spiral staircase at 39th Street, an accessible elevator at 37th Street, and a direct connection to the Javits Center’s green roof.
Landscape architect James Corner Field Operations and architecture firm Diller Scofidio + Renfro, who designed the original High Line, incorporated elements that reference the extension’s unique industrial history. Steel trellises reminiscent of railroad switches support climbing vines, while original rail tracks have been preserved in sections as historical artifacts.
The planting design emphasizes native species and four-season interest, with more than 100,000 perennials, grasses, shrubs, and trees creating distinct ecological zones. A new water feature called “Hudson Echo” creates a reflecting pool that captures skyline views.
“We’ve evolved our approach to emphasize climate resilience,” explained planting designer Piet Oudolf. “This section incorporates more drought-tolerant species and rainwater harvesting systems that make the park self-sustaining.”
Public art features prominently in the new section, with permanent installations by Maya Lin and El Anatsui. Additionally, rotating exhibition spaces will feature temporary works, beginning with a sound installation by sound artist Janet Cardiff.
The $35 million extension was funded through a public-private partnership, with $18 million from city capital funds, $9 million from federal infrastructure grants, and the remainder from private donations coordinated by Friends of the High Line.
The economic impact is expected to be substantial. An analysis by the New York City Economic Development Corporation projects the extension will generate approximately $120 million in additional annual tourist spending and support nearly 800 jobs in surrounding neighborhoods.
Several new businesses have already opened in anticipation of increased foot traffic, including three restaurants and a boutique hotel along 38th Street. The Javits Center has also reconfigured its entrance to better accommodate pedestrian flow from the park.
The High Line extension is open daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., with free guided tours available every Saturday and Sunday at 10 a.m. For more information about events and programming, visit TheHighLine.org.
