Brooklyn Bridge’s ‘The Arches’ Reopens: New Public Space for Manhattan Community

Brooklyn Bridge Arches Reopen to the Public

Sections of public space on the Manhattan side of the Brooklyn Bridge, known as “The Arches,” reopened recently. This area had been used as a contractor staging site for ten years while the bridge underwent restoration.

The new “Arches” space covers 1/3 acre and includes over a dozen trees, such as oaks, elms, and Japanese pagoda trees. Sixteen park benches have been restored and placed around the area, offering views of the historic bridge.

NYC DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez stated, “For the last decade, NYC DOT crews have worked hard to restore the iconic Brooklyn Bridge. Now that this critical restoration is nearing a close, we are returning another portion of ‘The Arches’ to the community.” This area is important for residents and visitors of Lower Manhattan and Chinatown, and NYC DOT plans to open even more sections soon.

Last year, earlier parts of the public space were opened to celebrate the 140th anniversary of the Brooklyn Bridge. Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi emphasized that public space in Manhattan is valuable, stating, “Every acre counts for the people who live, work in, and visit our bustling metropolis.”

The largest sections of The Arches have yet to reopen. The NYC DOT has started engaging with the community through meetings and visioning sessions planned before the year ends.

In September, the agency applied for a federal grant to help fund future sections of The Arches project. They are waiting for news on the award.