Robert Hammond: Building a park in the sky

The High Line, an elevated rail line in Manhattan, was originally a freight line known as 'Death Avenue.' It was abandoned in 1980 and faced demolition until community members, including Joshua David, formed Friends of the High Line to preserve it. Despite initial opposition, the project gained support, especially under Mayor Bloomberg, and transformed into a successful public park. The High Line has significantly boosted local property values and inspired new architecture. Its design, inspired by its wildscape, has made it a popular public space, fostering community interaction and changing how New Yorkers experience their city.

What was the original purpose of the High Line before it became a park?

• A pedestrian walkway

• A passenger train line

• A highway

• A freight line

Who was the 'West Side Cowboy'?

• A local hero who saved people from trains

• A nickname for the train conductor

• A famous New York City mayor

• A person hired to ride in front of trains on horseback

What was the initial goal of the Friends of the High Line organization?

• To develop new residential buildings

• To save the High Line from demolition

• To create a new park

• To build a new train line

What inspired the design of the High Line park?

• European gardens

• Traditional New York City parks

• The wildscape of the abandoned rail line

• Modern architecture

How much did the High Line project initially estimate to cost?

• 150 million dollars

• 100 million dollars

• 200 million dollars

• 50 million dollars

Which famous architects have buildings visible from the High Line?

• Frank Gehry and Jean Nouvel

• Santiago Calatrava and Richard Rogers

• Zaha Hadid and Norman Foster

• I.M. Pei and Renzo Piano

What unique social behavior was observed on the High Line after it opened?

• People holding hands

• People dancing

• People singing

• People picnicking