Intrepid Museum Opens 4,000 Square Feet of Additional Public Park Space on Pier 86 in Hudson River Park

The Intrepid Museum held a ribbon-cutting ceremony on May 14, 2024, to officially commemorate the opening of 4,000 additional square feet of waterfront public park space on Pier 86 in Hudson River Park. This project completes the restoration of the last remaining section of the original pier, built more than 80 years ago.

In preparation for the project, a decommissioned chiller plant was replaced by an “on-ship” state-of-the-art co-generation plant. As a key component of the reconstruction, the old wooden piles were replaced with two-foot diameter steel piles driven to bedrock. Partners in the project included JT Cleary, a leader in marine construction, and Jacobs, a worldwide engineering firm. 

This new open pier space, situated next to the Museum’s British Airways Concorde—one of its most popular artifacts —will host programs, exhibitions, and events, offering an expansive setting along the West Side waterfront. The pier restoration took place in conjunction with the refurbishment of Concorde, which recently returned to the Intrepid Museum in March after seven months at Brooklyn Navy Yard. Both projects were completed ahead of the annual Fleet Week festivities, which begin with the Parade of Ships on Wednesday, May 22 and culminate on Monday, May 27 with the Museum’s annual Memorial Day ceremony.

“These cumulative efforts highlight the Museum's ongoing commitment to enhancing local community spaces, creating more efficient and cleaner energy, and supporting New York City’s economy growth, said Museum President Susan Marenoff-Zausner. “We are thrilled to contribute to the cultural and recreational enrichment of our neighborhood.”

Congressman Jerry Nadler said, “I’m proud to have fought for the funding in Congress to make the expansion of this public park space possible. The Intrepid is a crown jewel on our waterfront—and I’ll keep working to support this inviting new space for neighbors and tourists alike to gather and enjoy all the West Side has to offer.”

DASNY President and CEO Robert J. Rodriguez said, “DASNY takes immense pride in its role supporting the work of the Intrepid Museum and the restoration of Pier 86, both cherished New York City landmarks.  I am honored to join Governor Hochul in support of this important project, along with that of the Empire State Development Corporation, the New York State Senate and Assembly, Congressman Jerry Nadler, New York City, and the dedicated Intrepid staff who breathe life into these historical innovations.”

Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, "The unveiling of the restored public space at Pier 86, alongside the Intrepid Museum's iconic British Airways Concorde, marks a pivotal milestone in the revitalization of the West Side waterfront. This project preserved an important piece of New York City's maritime heritage and transformed the pier into a dynamic hub that welcomes travelers and residents, while promoting new investments that generate economic growth."

NYCREDC Co-Chairs Félix V. Matos Rodríguez, City University of New York Chancellor and William D. Rahm, Senior Managing Director at Centerbridge Partners, said, "The restoration of Pier 86 showcases the transformative power of strategic investments in our public spaces through the Regional Council initiative. By revitalizing this historic waterfront asset, this newly accessible area will attract visitors from around the world, bolster the local economy, provide learning opportunities for students and the community, and contribute to the enduring allure of New York City as a global tourism destination."

Hudson River Park Trust President and CEO Noreen Doyle said, “It’s always a good day in New York City when new public open space is created. Beyond the expanded open space, the Intrepid Museum’s project also advances other important aspects of Hudson River Park’s mission including supporting culture and maritime history. Congratulations to the Intrepid Museum for getting this important project done.” 

This project is supported by congressionally directed funds generously allocated by Congressman Nadler, and public funds generously designated by the members of the state legislature and administered by a Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY).  This project is also supported by the Empire State Development and NYC Regional Economic Development Council; the NYC Economic Development Corporation; the NYC Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the City Council and the mayor of the City of New York; and the Office of the Manhattan Borough President.