The future East River Pier 35, to open in late 2013

The city Economic Development Corporation’s plan to improve the East River Waterfront has reached several major milestones in the past year -- including opening the esplanade’s pilot section, as well as the new double-decker Pier 15. Over the coming months, work is ramping up on the project’s $24 million “Package 3,” which includes several improvements on Pier 35 and the uplands area around it, southward to Pike Slip.

That work includes building atop the existing pier, which already has been structurally reinforced, to incorporate it into the overall esplanade design. Crews will repaint the east side of the FDR Drive overpass to match the pilot section. Also, a major section of 36-inch water main will be replaced on South Street between Pier 35 and Pike Slip, starting approximately mid-2012. Once completed, the area’s designated bike lane will be restored, and construction will be coordinated with the ongoing Brooklyn Bridge rehabilitation project. Full Package 3 completion is expected in late 2013.

Currently, with Pier 15 and the pilot area now open, remaining Package 1 work includes completion of esplanade work this fall outside the South Street Seaport area, from Maiden Lane to Fulton Street. A new vendor, soon to be announced, also will activate the waterfront pavilion at Maiden Lane, and on Pier 15.

Package 2 esplanade work continues between the Battery Maritime Building and Old Slip, including utility and roadway reconstruction through approximately January 2013.