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Governors Island Will Open EARLY This Year
By
Jen Carlson
Published Jan 17, 2017
Modified Jan 17, 2017
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By
Jen Carlson
Published Jan 17, 2017
Modified Jan 17, 2017
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Governors Island will open one month early this year, on May 1st, giving New Yorkers the ability to explore the area during spring for the first time in history. In the past, the Island has opened around Memorial Day, so this extends their season from 120 days to 146 days. Thanks, Governors!
“An extra month on Governor’s Island means more arts, culture and outdoor time for New York families. We are proud of the focused progress that got us to a spring opening this year, and will note that a May Day opening stands as a symbol of changes as we create a more livable and affordable city,” said Mayor Bill de Blasio.
The opening date announcement came with another one: Island Oyster, "a new food and beverage concession featuring sustainably sourced seafood in a garden-like atmosphere," will also be opening on this year, providing "expanded dining options and unparalleled views of the Lower Manhattan skyline and New York Harbor."
On top of their usual food, arts and events offerings, last year the Island delivered the most precious thing to New Yorkers: more space. Their newly landscaped area, The Hills features slides, grassy knolls, and yes, more views.
Ronay Menschel, Chair of the Trust for Governors Island, said upon the early opening announcement: "With the Hills and stunning harbor views, an ever-expanding rotation of arts and cultural programming, and now a longer public season, Governors Island continues to be a unique public resource for all New Yorkers.” And we couldn't agree more. Take a look at the bucolic setting above, and count down to May 1st.
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early opening
governors island
Jen Carlson
Jen Carlson is a former WNYC and Gothamist editor.
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Gothamist is funded by sponsors and member donations
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