Ken Smith Workshop creates pedestrian plaza for Delancey Street Associates

Manhattan, NY Delancey Street Associates, a joint venture of Taconic Partners, L+M Development Partners, BFC Partners, the Prusik Group, and the Urban Investment Group within Goldman Sachs Asset Management, is creating a new pedestrian plaza fronting 145 and 155 Delancey St. Through a collaboration between Delancey Street Associates, the New York City Department of Transportation (NYC DOT), the Lowest East Side Partnership, and the New York City Economic Development Corporation, the current wide street shoulder space will become an expansive pedestrian plaza owned by the NYC DOT, as well as will provide a safer outdoor walking area for the Lower East Side community and Essex Crossing residents and guests.  

The plaza was designed by Ken Smith Workshop, which has worked on pedestrian and landscape projects across the city and abroad, including Powerhouse Arts, the Meatpacking District reconstruction, and Pier 35 on the East River Waterfront. In addition to providing more inviting and safer outdoor space bordered by potted greenery, this expansion of Essex Crossing’s outdoor footprint will help to reduce urban heat island effect through cool blue and burlap colors across the plaza area. 

“A reimagined Delancey Street Pedestrian Plaza is an exciting addition to Essex Crossing and the Lower East Side’s public realm,” said Tim Laughlin, president, Lower East Side Partnership. “These types of enhancements turn otherwise underutilized roadbed areas into public spaces that support economic growth while simultaneously improving residential quality of life.” 

The Lower East Side partnership will maintain the space upon completion. 

“DSA is constantly seeking new ways to continue to serve the Lower East Side, and the DOT presented a great opportunity to expand available outdoor space while enhancing walkability within the one-minute city of Essex Crossing,” said Matt Strombelline, senior associate, Taconic Partners. “Maintaining an open, pedestrian-friendly neighborhood is a cornerstone of Essex Crossing.” 

This is the second public area delivered by Delancey Street Associates for Essex Crossing. This new area will provide direct access to the Essex Crossing offices, Essex Market, The Market Line, and the new location of VITAL gym.