Premium Content: Newly redesigned Dumbo Archway Plaza unveiled

DUMBO — The Dumbo Improvement District (DID) unveiled the newly redesigned Dumbo Archway Plaza on Water Street with an opening night celebration on Friday, Oct. 18.

“New York’s oldest plaza is now its newest and we are thrilled with the vibe it’s already creating down here!” said Alexandria Sica, president of the DID.

The event included a ribbon-cutting ceremony with influential community members who are leading the Pearl Street Triangle updates. Sica and AECOM designer Gonzalo Cruz were the primary speakers for the night. 

“We are thrilled for the next phase in enhancing Dumbo’s public realm with the construction of this new public plaza,” said Cruz. “This flexible open space will not only offer residents and visitors a welcoming environment to gather but will also serve as a dynamic connection between the neighborhood’s historic charm and its modern energy. With incredible support from NYC Department of Transportation (NYC DOT), the Dumbo Improvement District, and community input, this plaza will elevate the experience of living, working, and visiting Dumbo, fostering a sense of place for everyone.” 

The Pearl Street Triangle was the first plaza in the New York City Plaza Program, supported by former commissioner of the NYC DOT Janette Sadik-Khan. Today, it functions as part of Dumbo’s massive historic street preservation project, with sculptural seating designed by Cruz, custom umbrellas by Dumbo-based artist Liz Collins and projection art on the Manhattan Bridge. 

“This is a space where everyone can gather,” said Sica. “Kids are delighting in the benches, coworkers are catching up in our new Adirondack chairs and projection art is delighting one and all. It’s finally a space befitting its majestic backdrop, the Manhattan Bridge.”