WXY Proposes Transformative Plan for Albany's Empire State Plaza
WXY, in partnership with the New York State Office of General Services, has introduced a strategy to enhance the Empire State Plaza in Albany, New York. The complex, crafted by Wallace Harrison and inaugurated between 1973 and 1978, has received criticism regarding its architectural design. Named 'Reconnect the Empire State Plaza,' this initiative marks the first comprehensive visioning effort in almost five decades, incorporating insights from public feedback. The proposal tackles issues such as ambiguous entrances and inadequate pedestrian pathways, suggesting a more accessible Swan Street bridge and a refined entrance at Madison Avenue. Governor Kathy Hochul's initiative will provide $25 million in initial funding, with project execution anticipated in stages over the next three years.
Key facts
- WXY and OGS developed the comprehensive plan for Empire State Plaza.
- The plan is the first coordinated public visioning effort since the plaza opened nearly 50 years ago.
- The plaza was designed by Wallace Harrison under Governor Nelson Rockefeller.
- Construction displaced over 7,000 predominantly immigrant and Black residents from the 'Gut' neighborhood.
- The plaza opened in stages from 1973 to 1978, including The Egg.
- Paul Goldberger called it 'a grandiose, utter folly' in 1976.
- Martin Filler said the buildings 'loom menacingly, like aliens from another galaxy.'
- The plan includes converting Swan Street bridge into a pedestrian 'front porch.'
- The Madison Avenue Gateway would create a clearer pedestrian entrance.
- Biggs Laboratory could be adapted for public use.
- The large reflecting pool may be replaced with a lawn.
- The Downtown Walkway would be improved.
- Initial $25 million from Governor Kathy Hochul's initiative will fund five near-term projects.
- Only 2% of survey respondents use the Downtown Walkway from MVP Arena.
Entities
Artists
- Wallace Harrison
- Claire Weisz
- Paul Goldberger
- Martin Filler
Institutions
- WXY
- New York State Office of General Services (OGS)
- Empire State Plaza
- The Egg
- Fred Basch Architect
- NV5
- The New York Times
- Progressive Architecture
- New York State Museum
- Biggs Laboratory
- MVP Arena
Locations
- Albany
- New York
- United States
- Swan Street
- Madison Avenue
- Center Square neighborhood
- Downtown Walkway