The newly completed Pier 26 is part of the Hudson River Parks Trust in lower Manhattan. This unique park was conceived as a critical recreation and education space for nearby neighborhoods, and it is one of the only parks in the region that offers several distinct ecological zones in a single location, including a rocky tidal zone, coastal grassland, and even a woodland forest. Each area is accessible, well-marked, used functionally, and offers educational opportunities for the public while managing to recreate the natural environment that was once found in New York City.

Featuring popular destinations including the Tide Deck, the City Vineyard, and the Downtown Boathouse, this 2.5-acre pier is one of many components to the sprawling Hudson River Park in development along Manhattan’s riverfront by the Hudson River Park Trust. Naturcycle supplied a variety of lightweight soil blends featuring Norlite aggregates and local materials. Success on this project was due to the great design work of the landscape architecture firm Olin and expert installation by Steven Dubner Landscaping. The tidal area and wetlands were designed by Biohabitats.

The New York chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects will be hosting an educational tour of the Pier 26 site on September 15th. The event will provide learning opportunities in small group sessions and continuing education credits for registered LA’s. The three ecological zones in the park will be highlighted during these 15-to-20-minute sessions led by representatives from various project participants. Naturcycle is sponsoring a reception which will be held after the tour for event attendees at a nearby restaurant. Refreshments and hors d’oeuvres will be provided. Sign up today! Hope to see you there!