Project Description
Newtown Creek Nature Walk is a linear park and entrance garden at the industrial nexus of Brooklyn and Queens. Adjacent to the dramatic blue eggs of the Newtown Creek Waste Water Treatment Plant, the park provides green waterfront access to the creek.
The landscape, designed in conjunction with the environmental artist George Trakas, enhances the gritty, marine characteristics of the site in wood, stone, unpainted metal, and native plant materials adapted to the tough environment. Storm water infiltrates into the creek, and the materials and plants were selected to withstand flooding. The landscaped areas begin at the sidewalk, bringing the themes and elements of the waterfront walkway outside the site boundaries and into the neighborhood. A variety of close-range water experiences include pockets of stepped-down seating cut into the bulkhead, and broad granite steps descending to the water where visitors can take in views of the city skyline and the boats and waterfowl in the creek. An informal pathway of crushed stone meanders along the creek edge, interspersed with native plantings, boulders and massive stone seating elements.
Many birds and butterflies have made a home here and provide a stark contrast to the surrounding industrial landscape. The water quality has significantly improved in recent years, and fishing and kayaking in the creek have become popular around the site.
* NYC Public Design Commission Excellence in Design Award
* Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce Building Brooklyn Award