Court Decision Clears the Way for East River Greenway Bike Bridge

A community group had sued to prevent the construction of a bridge in Clara Coffey Park in New York City. The court ruled in the favor of the city's plans.

1 minute read

May 12, 2020, 6:00 AM PDT

By James Brasuell @CasualBrasuell


New York East River Esplanade

A rendering of the East River Greenway. | New York City Economic Development Corporation / Image via Streetsblog NYC

"The [New York] state Supreme Court’s Appellate Division has rejected a lawsuit that sought to stop the erection of a pedestrian and bicycle bridge over a Midtown Manhattan park," reports Eve Kessler. 

Calling the court decision a "victory for city agencies over the 'Not in My Back Yard' crowd," Kessler explains that the decision by the Appellate Division sets a precedent that infrastructure is an entirely appropriate use of parkland, and could pave the way for similar victories in the future. 

"The bridge — which would span the FDR Drive to connect Sutton Place South at East 54th Street to an as yet unbuilt part of  the East River Esplanade —  is part of the larger East River Greenway, a mammoth, multi-year project to create waterfront access around Manhattan for residential recreation," according to Kessler.

The group on the other side of the issue, the Cannon Point Preservation Corporation, "sued the city last year claiming the bridge would illegally seize parkland in a vest-pocket greensward, Clara Coffey Park."

Monday, May 11, 2020 in StreetsBlog NYC

portrait of professional woman

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Get top-rated, practical training

Close-up of park ranger in green jacket and khaki hat looking out at Bryce Canyon National Park red rock formations.

National Parks Layoffs Will Cause Communities to Lose Billions

Thousands of essential park workers were laid off this week, just before the busy spring break season.

February 18, 2025 - National Parks Traveler

Paved walking path next to canal in The Woodlands, Texas with office buildings in background.

Retro-silient?: America’s First “Eco-burb,” The Woodlands Turns 50

A master-planned community north of Houston offers lessons on green infrastructure and resilient design, but falls short of its founder’s lofty affordability and walkability goals.

February 19, 2025 - Greg Flisram

Small rural USPS post office in manufactured one-story grey building with American flag in front.

Delivering for America Plan Will Downgrade Mail Service in at Least 49.5 Percent of Zip Codes

Republican and Democrat lawmakers criticize the plan for its disproportionate negative impact on rural communities.

February 12, 2025 - Cowboy State Daily

Chicago

Test News Post 1

This is a summary

April 8 - 2TheAdvocate.com

test alt text

Test News Headline 46

Test for the image on the front page.

March 5 - Cleantech blog

Military humvee driving through gate at Fort Indiantown Gap Natl Guard training center in Pennsylvania surrounded by winter trees and dead leaves.

Balancing Bombs and Butterflies: How the National Guard Protects a Rare Species

The National Guard at Fort Indiantown Gap uses GIS technology and land management strategies to balance military training with conservation efforts, ensuring the survival of the rare eastern regal fritillary butterfly.

February 24 - Esri Blog