HUDSON YARDS — The City Council unanimously approved developer Brookfield Properties' plan to double the amount of public space at its $4.5 billion Hudson Yards project on Tuesday.
The rezoning plan for Manhattan West, which Brookfield is building between West 31st and West 33rd streets, from Ninth Avenue to Dyer Avenue, will let Brookfield expand its open space from just over 1 acre to 2 acres.
Along with the open space, the 5-acre project will include two new office towers, a luxury residential tower, a boutique hotel and retail space. Brookfield is currently building a platform above the West Side Rail Yards, where the development will rise.
"This project brings 2 acres of vibrant open space that is sorely needed to this community, which will include world-class free and public arts and events programming by Brookfield," said City Councilman Corey Johnson, who represents the neighborhood, in a statement.
The 2 acres of public plazas were designed by James Corner Field Operations, which also designed the High Line.
The plazas will include an event space for concerts, art exhibits and performances; an "art plaza" to show off artwork and sculptures approved by the city's Public Design Commission; and areas of trees, tables and chairs.
The plan was previously approved by Community Board 4, the Manhattan Borough President's Office and the City Planning Commission.
