The island’s open hours also will be expanded in 2012

The first phase of work to improve and expand park space on Governors Island begins in 2012, according to the Trust for Governors Island. The work is part of a two-year program to restore historic district green space, add visitor amenities, add ball fields, and create a more welcoming gateway at Soissons Landing on the island’s north end. Historic buildings in Nolan Park and Colonels Row also will undergo stabilization work.

The island’s open hours also will be expanded in 2012. It will be open to the public on Saturdays, Sundays and holiday Mondays from May 26th through late September, and for the first time, the island will stay open on Saturday evenings in June. However, Fridays will be closed to the public to facilitate construction.

With the help of New York City–allocated funds, the Trust also is working on several capital projects to improve Governors Island’s utility infrastructure, including restoring potable water via a new pipe from Brooklyn. Other repairs include replacing the seawall and storm system, upgrading electrical and telecommunications systems, and modernizing docks and piers (including those in the Battery Maritime Building).

During the 2012 season, the 2.2 mile promenade and Picnic Point will be open every weekend for visitors, and the National Park Service will continue to offer guided tours of the historic district Wednesday through Friday (requiring reservations for tours for groupsof ten or more), and ranger programs on

Saturday and Sunday. In 2011, Governors Island welcomed nearly a half-million visitors.

The entire Park and Public Space Plan is online at www.govislandpark.com.

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