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Read the press release here.

You Can Help Plan the Lowline Through Community Engagement Committee

By Allegra Hobbs | April 29, 2016 2:18pm
 The Lowline Lab demonstrates the aesthetic and technology that would be used in the underground park.
The Lowline Lab demonstrates the aesthetic and technology that would be used in the underground park.
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DNAinfo/Lisha Arino

LOWER EAST SIDE — Community members on Saturday will get a chance to weigh in and contribute ideas for the Lowline, the underground park coming to an old trolley station under Delancey Street.

Councilwoman Margaret Chin at noon will help launch a “community engagement committee” at the Lowline Lab at 140 Essex St. in an effort to further engage locals in the planning process, said co-founder Dan Barasch.

"This committee will directly help inform the design and programming of the Lowline," he said. "We want to have an open dialogue with as many people as possible."

The Lowline Lab in October launched in the former Essex Street Market building to showcase the technology planned for the planned park, which is currently being reviewed by the city’s Economic Development Corporation.

Though Community Board 3 in 2013 granted its approval of the concept, some concern arose surrounding the project's community engagement efforts when the city released a Request for Expressions of Interest for the site, intended to gather feedback on a concept before moving forward, without adequately consulting the board, Bedford and Bowery reported

Barasch said that he sympathized with community concerns and will continue to practice transparency and direct community engagement. While the Lowline has made a concerted effort to consult locals through programs at the lab, he said, the assembling of a formal committee is a step forward.

"I agree with everyone in the community who feels strongly there should be a lot of community input," said Barasch. "People have a right to be concerned about any new changes in the community. At this event, we're hoping to showcase how many people are already supporting us, as well as drawing new people into the process."

Attendees of Saturday's event will have the opportunity to sign up for a spot in the committee, which will meet regularly throughout the planning and design process for the Lowline.

The free event is open to the public and will be catered by Insomnia Cookies. Those interested in attending the event can RSVP here.