It was another one of those simmering hot days in July and a perfect time to escape the city. When our boat approached the Governors Island dock after only about a ten-minute ride, the cooling breeze affirmed that it was a good idea to go out for another adventure with the Design Trust Council (to read about our other summer excursions, click here).

No matter how many times one might have been to the Island, it always feels like a nice surprise when one steps out of the ferry – maybe because it’s hard to believe that such an oasis exists in such proximity to the city. This was not Design Trust Council’s first visit to Governors Island and we were quite struck with the landscape yet again. Last year we came to review the progress of the Island’s new 30-acre park in construction (to read about our last visit, click here).

This was the before-and-after moment we’ve long waited for. The Trust for Governors Island President Leslie Koch was so kind to offer us an exclusive tour of the breathtaking new park led by the wonderful Molly Bourne from Mathews Nielsen, who is involved in the new park’s design. Design Trust Council, including many new members, was ready to experience this rare opportunity.

The new 30 acres of park include Liggett Terrace, a sunny, six-acre plaza with seasonal plantings, seating, water features and public art; Hammock Grove, a ten-acre space that is home to 1,500 new trees, play areas and 50 hammocks; and the Play Lawn, 14 acres for play and relaxation that includes two natural turf ball fields sized for adult softball and Little League baseball.

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