Little Island NYC

We were thrilled to read artist Jadé Fadojutimi’s beautiful words about her time on Little Island in The New Yorker: "We crossed over to the British designer Thomas Heatherwick’s Little Island, and climbed up to its highest point as the sun was dropping over the New Jersey skyline, bathing the city in an intense reddish glow... ‘It was worth the walk for this,’ Fadojutimi said, emphatically." Read more here: https://bit.ly/4ffFFjT

We’re thrilled to see The Marriage of Figaro named one of the "Best Theater of 2024" in New York Magazine! “On the outdoor stage at Little Island, with the lights of New Jersey sparkling on the Hudson in the background, Anthony Roth Costanzo made the wild endeavor of a one singer Marriage of Figaro look, if not exactly easy, then certainly like an absolute blast. Directed with madcap, let-the-seams-show wizardry by Dustin Wills—and co-starring a quintet of wonderful comic actors as a crew of harried stagehands who eventually morphed into characters, Costanzo’s voice pouring out of each of them like so many Lena Lamonts—this Figaro was a grand experiment in anarchic play. (And thanks to Dan Schlosberg’s deft arrangements, the whole thing came home in 90-ish minutes.)” We’re so proud to see this production receive such high praise. Read the full article here: https://bit.ly/4fc1GQp

Congratulations to Hudson River Park, on the grand opening of Pier 97! The newly opened park features a 26-foot-high rope climbing structure, athletic field, sloping lawn, elevated walkway with seating, an all-ages slide, and a scenic promenade. We’re proud to be one of the many unique piers that make up this incredible waterfront greenspace, each contributing something special to the whole. Learn more about Pier 97’s opening: https://7ny.tv/49oMpKY

We’re proud to see Little Island artist Anthony Roth Costanzo featured in San Francisco Classical Voice. Anthony brought his unique artistry to The Amph during the 2024 season, and he continues to captivate audiences across the country. In the article, he discusses the nuances of his work as a countertenor and what drives him artistically. It’s an inspiring read for anyone interested in the impact of the arts and the stories of those who bring them to life. Read more: https://bit.ly/4fI5IBk

Explore the indigenous history of the Hudson River waterfront with our History Audio Tour, led by Lenape Ambassador Grandmother Clara Soaring Hawk. As an Elder, Activist and Spiritual Advisor, Grandmother Clara shares insights on the Lenape people, the original stewards of this land. The audio tour reveals the Lenape’s sustainable practices, their use of trade routes near today’s Little Island, and their legacy that lives in Manhattan. Listen in to gain a deeper appreciation for the Lenape’s commitment to the land and future generations. 📸: Hudson River Park https://lnkd.in/epeDUyji

At Little Island, we prioritize growth—not only in our gardens but in our people. We’re proud to offer paid professional development for our year-round staff, allowing them to build new skills and explore personal career interests. Our Horticulturist Jamie, for example, has taken courses in Plant Health Care, Urban Garden Design, and Beginning Birding—some of which helped complete their Horticulture Certificate. Jamie’s birding course has helped them track migratory birds in the park, adding depth to their work and contributing valuable data to our records and the upkeep of our landscape design. As Jamie’s supervisor Orrin, Head of Horticulture, shared, “All Horticulture staff at Little Island are encouraged to be curious and to take advantage of professional development opportunities. By taking classes, attending lectures, and participating in training, our staff builds skillsets that benefit our garden and their careers.” Interested in joining us? Learn more about opportunities with our team: https://bit.ly/4fdkO1o 📸: Michael Grimm

Fourteen years ago today, Hurricane Sandy destroyed Pier 54. Today, remnants of that pier live on as an integral part of Little Island’s design. The original piles, still visible at low tide, inspired the park’s unique structure – rising from the water like petals to cradle the park’s greenery. The transformation from a desecrated pier to a vibrant public space is a testament to innovation and resilience. 📸: Michael Grimm

Little Island was recently featured on the Built Podcast, where key voices behind this visionary park—Signe Nielsen (MNLA), Mat Cash (Heatherwick studio), Laura Clement (Executive Director), and Michael Wiggins (Director of Engagement and Strategic Partnerships)—shared their insights. They discussed the creative vision, design challenges, and community impact of building a public park that blends art, nature, and public space. Listen to the episode here: https://lnkd.in/d_5hUpFb

Join us next Friday, October 11th, for special Archtober tours of Little Island! Led by our visionary Landscape Architect Signe Nielsen of MNLA and Architect of Record Fabian Jabro of Standard Architects, this tour will reveal how a plan to revive a pier destroyed by Hurricane Sandy transformed into an award-winning park loved by over 5 million visitors! Learn about the creation of the winding paths, colorful blooms, and the innovative tulip pots that define Little Island’s unique design. No need to RSVP—just meet us under the South Bridge Pot Tunnel at 2:00 p.m. or 3:30 p.m. We hope to see you there!