the third and final section is open for business

The third and final section of the High Line opened to the public on Sunday, September 21st. There was a soft opening on Saturday, September 20th for community partners & long-time members and events scheduled throughout the day, which was the reason my work week was six days, instead of the normal five. It began with a procession from the southern most point of the High Line (Gansevoort and Washington) and traveled all the way to the very north (34th Street and 11th Avenue). There were over 600 people in attendance and they carried props and puppets that represented the five most notable themes of the neighborhoods in which the High Line passes through. 

 

It began with a West Side Cowboy leading the way. 

A large locomotive followed, which was a combination of puppets that resembled a train (once put together). 

Behind that, were five groups separated by subject matter and color - Movers & Makers (green); Meats, Markets, & Mallomars (red); On the Waterfront (blue); The Wild West Side (pink); and Vision & re: Vision (silver). 

The people in each group held large train lights and human-like figurines, in addition to colorful pieces of silk. There was a pause at 30th Street and an official ribbon cutting took place that included government officials. Once the procession started back up again and reached 34th, the participants were led to a communal meal; complete with white picnic tables and checkered red tablecloths. Bread was broken (so to speak), further remarks were made, and smiles and cheers ensued. After the communal meal portion of the day was finished and the crowds dispersed, we switched gears and began setting up for the member social. Wine and cheese was served, the checkered linens were collected, and the picnic tables were adorned with very natural floral arrangements in Ball jars and tin buckets. The most amazing part was watching certain members wave and cheer when our Co-Founder, Joshua David, spoke. He thanked the members profusely and let them know we couldn't have come this far without them. Although it was an intense few days to handle after a week away, I am grateful to have taken part in such an important day in history for not only Friends of the High Line, but also for the city of New York. Come and visit, and get on the High Line!