
Together, the NYC Department of Parks & Recreation (NYC Parks), NYC Department of Environmental Protection (NYC DEP) and Hudson Square Business Improvement District (BID) are bringing a brand new, more than 11,000 square foot public plaza to Hudson Square. Hudson-Houston Plaza is part of the neighborhood’s more than decade-long tradition to continuously add new public spaces.
The newly unveiled designs promise a property of relaxation and social interaction. Mathews Nielsen Landscape Architects (MNLA), leading the project, prioritized community involvement in conceptualizing Hudson-Houston Plaza. In addition to surveying 450 residents, workers and students, MNLA, the BID, NYC Parks and NYC DEP held two public community input meetings and student and faculty workshops with City-As-School, a nearby high school. Thus, more than 600 locals contributed to the plaza’s guiding principles: flexible spaces, inclusive to users, nature forward, art-centric, and welcoming.
To be constructed on the corner of Hudson and West Houston Streets, design elements will highlight the history, languages and cultures representative of the neighborhood. Eduardo Kobra’s Ellis mural, found on the City-As-School building, is the plaza’s overall imaginative influence.
“Public spaces should inspire and reflect the communities they serve, and the design for Hudson-Houston Plaza seeks to do just that,” said NYC Parks Commissioner Sue Donoghue. “NYC Parks is proud to partner with NYC DEP and the Hudson Square BID, and we look forward to bringing this uniquely creative and dynamic plaza to life—one that will capture the energy, diversity, and artistic spirit of New York City.”
Neighborhood residents can expect trees and plantings to liven the area with greenery, shaded community gathering spaces, and interactive elements of music, movement, and light.
“This project builds on our passion for creating beautiful and accessible spaces that continue to transform the neighborhood from a past dominated by truck and car traffic into a welcoming, pedestrian-friendly destination,” said Samara Karasyk, President and CEO of Hudson Square BID. “Hudson Square must serve the diverse needs of everyone who works, lives, and spends time here, and its outdoor spaces should reflect the creative energy that makes our neighborhood special.”
Overall, Hudson-Houston Plaza will be made possible thanks to $3.6 million funding coming from the Office of the Mayor in partnership with NYC DEP; Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine; and the Hudson Square Area Open Space Special Improvements Fund.
The construction timeline and other details will be outlined once the bidding process is complete. Learn more on NYC Parks’ website or the Hudson Square BID website.