Chinatown's 'Jailscraper' Faces Community Resistance
A significant development is underway in Manhattan's Chinatown, where a 16-story detention facility is being constructed by HOK at a staggering cost of $3.9 billion. This facility will replace the historic Manhattan Detention Complex, often referred to as the Tombs, and is projected to be completed by 2032, earning the distinction of the tallest jail globally. It is part of New York City's initiative to close Rikers Island and establish four new jails across the boroughs. Concerns have been raised by local advocacy groups regarding potential health hazards and the displacement of businesses due to construction activities.
Key facts
- New 16-storey jail in Chinatown costs $3.9 billion, designed by HOK.
- Projected completion in 2032, will be the tallest jail on earth.
- Part of NYC's plan to close Rikers Island and build four borough-based jails.
- Community groups oppose: Chinatown Art Brigade, Art Against Displacement, W.O.W. Project.
- Paul Pfeiffer exhibited 'Perspective Study' (2026) at ISS Storefront for Ideas.
- Jail design includes public art galleries, law library, horticulture space.
- Vidal Guzman: 'I don’t think people are going to notice that it’s even a jail.'
- Article references Angela Davis, Maya Schenwar, Victoria Law.
Entities
Artists
- Paul Pfeiffer
- César Aira
- Angela Davis
- Maya Schenwar
- Victoria Law
Institutions
- HOK
- ISS Storefront for Ideas
- Chinatown Art Brigade
- Art Against Displacement
- W.O.W. Project
- Tutor Perini Corporation
- New York County Civil Court
- Criminal Courts Building
- Manhattan Detention Complex
- Rikers Island
Locations
- Chinatown
- Manhattan
- New York City
- White Street
- Brooklyn
- Bronx
- Queens
- Lower Manhattan
- Surrogate’s Courthouse