As the weather cools in NYC, Hudson River Park Friends extends a warm “Thank You” to all of you, our Business Council members.
The Business Council began in 2020 during a time of uncertainty and economic downturn. After officially launching in 2023 with our Founding Members, we’re happy to say that we have grown into a 25 member organization, all of whom are actively enhancing economic and social growth around HRPK’s treasured riverfront oasis. Together, we can create additional opportunities for corporate engagement and community service.
In this issue, learn more about what’s new in Hudson River Park, what our Business Council members are working on, upcoming events, opportunities to get involved and more.
Lead.
Touring the Historic Terminal Warehouse
In June, BC (Business Council) members gathered for a tour of the Terminal Warehouse, a revitalization project known as, “A historic warehouse, reimagined for the 21st century, grounded in place and history.” This stunning development includes 700 feet end-to-end of iconic wood, steel and brick construction, 100K square feet of green spaces, 29 private terraces and more!
The West Side of Manhattan boasts centuries of maritime, industrial and shipping history. Have you passed by the railroad tracks in Hudson River Park by Pier 66? Until the early 1970s, railroad cars floated to Manhattan on barges, where they linked up with waterfront railroad tracks. Buildings like the historic Terminal Warehouse awaited the arrival of supplies (and livestock!) to be distributed into the Meatpacking District and beyond. Talk about a fresh catch!
Connect.
Welcoming New Members
The Business Council is always growing. Join us in giving a warm welcome to our newest members, The Walt Disney Company, represented by Pat Stahl, and Aquarian Holdings LLC, representative TBA.
In addition to welcoming new corporate members to the BC, we are excited to introduce Alex Liscio, now representing Brookfield. Alex is a West Side neighbor and a long-time supporter of the Park.
Member Spotlights
In each e-newsletter we will shine the spotlight on some of our members. Click the member names below to learn more about them.
Play.
Events & Activations
Have you visited the Business Council Events & Activations page on HRPK’s website? There, you can find information and photos about our past meetings and grab photos from BC (Business Council) members’ volunteer projects in the Park.
While you’re there, explore the Business Council Members page to see who’s who in our community. Next time we meet in person, it’ll be easier to find some familiar faces.
Want to get your hands in the dirt one more time this season? All Business Council members are invited to join us at the final Green Team of the 2025 season on Saturday, November 15, 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM. To sign up, email [email protected].
Check out highlights from 2025 BC member projects:
Exclusive Discounts at HRPK’s Newest Community Partners
Have you used your Friends with Benefits membership to the fullest?
Since opening in 2022, Pier 57 has become an iconic dining destination on the West Side. This year, the Park celebrated the grand openings of three new riverside Community Partners in Pier 57: Miru, ofCorsica and El Bar. Sunset views, fresh sushi, seasonal Mediterranean food and craft cocktails… What more is there to say?
Show your digital membership card for 10% off your next meal or tab. Until November 30, take 20% off – an exclusive for Hudson River Park Friends with Benefits members. If you haven’t received your FwB (Friend with Benefits) membership card, let us know. Visit HERE to see the Community Partners on an interactive Google Map.
Learn.
Fall 2025 BC Meeting – GDC Development
In September, we gathered via Zoom to hear a presentation from the Gateway Development Commission (GDC). GDC’s Chief of Public Affairs, Steve Sigmund, and Deputy Director of Government and Community Affairs, Laura Colacurcio, led a talk about the Manhattan Tunnel Project’s construction progress & extensive community engagement plans. This crucial project is the largest federal investment in rail infrastructure in modern history and promises improvements for thousands of daily passengers.
The Northeast Corridor is the most highly trafficked passenger rail line in the US. And yet, all NJ Transit and Amtrak trains enter and exit NYC via a single rail tunnel. Those traveling under the Hudson face delays nearly 2 out of every 3 days. Steve laid out the bright future to come – a time when passengers can rely on the timing of NJ-NY trains. Cheers to that! Due to the construction, Park patrons will see the bikeway and esplanade to shift eastward in 2026.
To view the recording of this presentation, visit HERE. Password is 1=$FqP9w. Please do not share this link outside of Business Council circles.
HRPK in the News
- Smithsonian Magazine spoke with HRPK’s River Project staff about ongoing plastic pollution research done with high school interns in the Science Leadership Program. Read the article HERE.
- The historic replica Erie Canal Boat Seneca Chief sailed down the Hudson this month in honor of the Canal’s 200th Anniversary, visiting HRPK on 10/25 and 10/26. Read about it HERE.
- This summer, Park launched a social media campaign teaching people that Hudson River Park is @NotTheWestSideHighway. Read about the campaign HERE.
Support.
Midnight Garden Gala on October 9
HRPK Friends’ Midnight Garden Gala was a smashing success. Our Gala joins Park supporters together for one unifying purpose: to keep Hudson River Park beautiful, green and growing.
This year’s Gala took on an extraordinary new format which transformed Pier Sixty into the Midnight Garden. Cocktails by the Carousel at Pier 62 were followed by a night of wonder in the beautiful Pier Sixty. Between the wandering stilt walkers, sustainable greenery and the delicious food spread, it was an evening to remember.
We were glad to see BC members dressed to the nines for a fabulous evening in the Park. Thank you for your support!
Still Time to Schedule Your Volunteer Project
At Friends, we extend our appreciation to the numerous Business Council companies that have already activated their volunteer day schedules for this season. If you have not arranged yours yet, please do so promptly. Take advantage of all benefits of your corporate membership before our last project date on December 5.
Find photos of Business Council members’ projects HERE.
We thank you for your support, innovative ideas and active participation on the Business Council. Please contact Amy at [email protected] with input regarding future meetings, programming and events.