More NYSE streetscape improvements are on the way

New paving, better lighting, and more attractive security features are on the way to the Financial District in 2007.

The upgrades are all part of the New York Stock Exchange-area streetscape-improvement plan kicked off by the city and Lower Manhattan Development Corporation (LMDC) in 2003. That original program brought about new wrought-iron fencing around the NYSE, "Euro-cobble" paving, outdoor tables and seating, planters, oversized bronze bollards, and retractable Delta barriers at several area intersections.

Now, with the first phase of work complete, the New York City Economic Development Corporation (EDC) is launching phase two thanks to a $15 million grant from the LMDC. With that capital in place, EDC and Rogers Marvel Architects are finalizing designs that will focus more on beautifying the streetscape itself, rather than improving security features.

The target areas for improvement are Nassau Street south of Pine, Wall Street from William to New, and Broad Street from Beaver to Exchange Place. Each of those streets will be integrated into the streetscape already in place on Broad Street outside the NYSE building -- they will be repaved with Euro-cobble, incorporate similar lighting, and have similar but smaller bronze bollards. New guard booths also may be installed at secure intersections.

One of the more significant new features is a turntable-style vehicle barrier at the south end of Broad Street. The circular barrier, about the width of a car, would be set flush into the street, about 18 inches deep into the roadway. Bollards would align across its center, and the circle would rotate 90 degrees, shifting the line of bollards to allow vehicles to enter or exit the area.

Another proposed detail is a more attractive fence around the northeast corner of the NYSE, as well as special paving or a water feature down Broad Street, harkening back to the days when a canal ran down its center.

Final planning and paperwork is being finalized now, and the EDC team plans to present the new designs to the New York City Art Commission in January 2007. Pending approval, work will start immediately. If the aggressive schedule EDC hopes for is implemented, the improved streetscape could be complete as early as winter 2007.

Related links
Looking Ahead: New York Stock Exchange Streetscape Improvements