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May 2, 2014

Commissioner Peña-Mora Visits the High Bridge

The newly-appointed Commissioner of the Department of Design and Construction, Dr. Feniosky Peña-Mora, marked his first week at the agency’s helm by leading a tour of the High Bridge. The restoration project will reopen the bridge to pedestrian and bicycle traffic for the first time in more than 40 years, once again connecting upper Manhattan and the Bronx. DDC is managing the rehabilitation of the bridge for the Department of Parks and Recreation. Parks First Deputy Commissioner Liam Kavanagh, Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer, and Councilmember Ydanis Rodriguez joined Commissioner Peña-Mora on the tour.

“We’re restoring not only the City’s oldest bridge, but also a vital link between upper Manhattan and the Bronx,” said Commissioner Peña-Mora. “I am committed to strengthening our agency’s connection to the communities we serve and to making our City’s infrastructure more resilient and environmentally-sustainable – so the High Bridge was a perfect project to visit during my first week. I look forward to continuing DDC’s good work in all five boroughs and to joining our colleagues at the Parks Department when we reopen the High Bridge.”

Upon completion, the project will allow Bronx residents to reach the Highbridge Pool and Recreation Center, and will enable Manhattan residents to access the Harlem River waterfront. Pedestrians will benefit from such new features as a hand-restored brick walkway, new safety railings, barrier-free access, new architectural lighting, and a renovated steel and masonry structure. The $61 million project is expected to be complete in December 2014.