Since opening to the public in September of 2020, Hudson River Park’s Pier 26 has sparked the imaginations of visitors with a design inspired by our waterfront’s native ecology. Soon there will be even more for families to discover and enjoy at this beloved destination — a unique science-themed play area which brings the Hudson River environment and wildlife to life — and we need your help to make it happen.
The Pier 26 Science Play Area Capital Campaign invites you to take an active role in the creation of a dynamic play space that will educate, delight and spark the imaginations of children now and in the future. Hudson River Park Friends is currently raising the $3.5 million to bring this state-of-the-art playground to our kids, and HRPK Friends Board Chair, Mike Novogratz, has generously pledged a challenge match to help raise the remaining funds needed to complete this campaign. In order to maximize this historic gift to HRPK Friends, we need to raise an additional $1.3 million by October 7, 2021. Be part of the Fun(ding); any donation level helps! Learn more and get involved today!
Designed by the award-winning OLIN, the firm that designed Pier 26, the Science Play Area will add 4,000 square feet of play-space to HRPK and feature larger-than-life play structures in the forms of two native and endangered sturgeon species. The dynamic design of the play area encourages children to explore the Hudson River Estuary from the inside.
The large Atlantic sturgeon will give all who explore a chance to learn about fish anatomy up close, while the shortnose sturgeon invites the curious to learn and play through accessible, interactive elements that teach about the Hudson River habitat. A perimeter seat wall, safety surfacing, climbing nets and other state-of-the-art play features will make this a popular destination with all members of the family.
The Pier 26 Science Play Area will add a valuable learning and play destination to the neighborhood and the Park. You can help bring this vital resource to our community by contributing to the Pier 26 Science Play Area Capital Campaign — download the campaign brochure to learn more about donor recognition opportunities.
