Brooklyn Waterfront Greenway Route in DUMBO & Vinegar Hill

March 28, 2007

In 2004 and 2005, when the conceptual plan for the greenway was being prepared, it was determined that the greenway should conform to the unique and historic character of DUMBO & Vinegar Hill. A separate focus group was held with representatives of DNA, Farragut Houses and Vinegar Hill Neighborhood Association in which all route possibilities between Sand Street and the waterfront were considered.

In 2007, the idea of rehabilitating Belgian blocks on Hudson, Water and Plymouth Streets, with the addition of a smooth Belgian block bike lane on Water and Plymouth Streets, evolved out of discussions between DUMBO and Vinegar Hill stakeholders and Brooklyn Greenway Initiative (BGI).

From a user point of view, the use of these one-way north/south streets with one-way bike lanes is an attractive solution for the following reasons:

• It exposes greenway users to these historic neighborhoods, without disrupting their unique character.
• Federal funding for bike/pedestrian facilities can help fund the rehabilitation of the area’s Belgian block streets.
• This route keeps the “waterfront greenway” as close to the waterfront as is practical.
• It is a safer, quieter route for pedestrians and cyclists than either York Street or Sand Street.
• Both Water and Plymouth run at the edge of Brooklyn Bridge Park for a distance, providing park access and visual access to the waterfront.

• The Water Street Arch of the Manhattan Bridge is currently closed to the public and used by NYC DOT.
• The City is only committed to Belgian block rehabilitation in historic districts. BGI has been advised that Vinegar Hill is, but DUMBO is not currently, an historic district.
• There has not yet been adequate planning to determine the issues and probable cost of Belgian block rehabilitation at these locations.
• One opportunity to apply for bike/ped funding will take place this spring.
• In order to apply for the funding, NYC DOT will need to sponsor the application and must be convinced that the Belgian block rehabilitation policy mentioned above will not interfere with the plan’s implementation.

In conclusion, the plan to rehabilitate Belgian block streets in the process of implementing the Brooklyn Waterfront Greenway appears to offer a potential solution for the greenway and for both communities. It will require expert analysis and resolution of the historic district issue to become a credible plan.