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Parachute Way Plaza at Coney Island

Renovation brings renewal to the beloved New York landmark after years of aging and a damaging hurricane

  • 2mi

    New Street Construction

  • 3mi

    New Sewers

  • Brooklyn, New York

    Brooklyn, New York

After the storm, a necessary renovation becomes a chance to create something new

Coney Island, New York City's iconic destination for fun, was due for a renovation. The New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC), saw the redevelopment as an opportunity to create a more unified community following the devastating impacts of Superstorm Sandy in 2012. Their vision included new streets, enlivened with streetscape amenities, pedestrian connections, shops, and restaurants. But they needed a design to bring it to life.

The project required almost two miles (three kilometres) of new street construction and three miles (nearly five kilometres) of new storm and sanitary sewers. As part of our design, we raised the streets to achieve positive flow for the storm sewers. We also created a grading transition area on Parachute Way. This area will serve as an entryway to the MCU Park and give pedestrians access to the boardwalk from Surf Avenue.

In a special collaboration with artist Xenobia Bailey, we incorporated a public art vision into the design process. Bailey used prisms and the color gradation of the pavers to make an artistic statement, which is reflected in the plaza design. For instance, the colors of the pavers range from black to deep brown to sandy tan, representing the colors of sand around the world and the community's diversity.

The final design creates an interesting space and supports the transition of Coney Island from a seasonal attraction into a vibrant, year-round community.

At a Glance

Offices
Client
NYC Economic Development Corporation
Meet Our Team

Donna Walcavage, Principal, Landscape Architect

I am dedicated to tackling the complex, multidimensional issues involved in creating resilient, beautiful, and welcoming urban communities.
Donna Walcavage Principal, Landscape Architect Read More

Gentry Lock, Principal, Landscape Architecture

I enjoy working with clients and communities to design urban open spaces that enhance the quality of life of all community members.
Gentry Lock Principal, Landscape Architecture Read More

Donna Walcavage

Principal, Landscape Architect

Gentry Lock

Principal, Landscape Architecture

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