See the new pavilion and plaza that just opened at Brooklyn Bridge Park

Nestled in the heart of Dumbo, Brooklyn Bridge Park has become a destination green space for New Yorkers and tourists, with millions of people visiting annually since its debut in 2010. After nearly a year and a half of construction-related work, the destination now dons a welcoming new entryway. 

Coinciding with the park’s 15th anniversary, the new pavilion and entryway at Pier 1 commemorate the park’s continued expansion and transformation. The debut of the new Brooklyn Bridge Park installment happened at a ribbon-cutting ceremony on April 8; guests included local New York City politicians, community members as well as Tod Williams Billie Tsien Architects, the agency that designed the new space. 

“With the opening of the new Pier 1 Pavilion and Entryway, we have created a vibrant destination in the Park, where visitors can meet, gather and enjoy this incredible public space,” said President of Brooklyn Bridge Park Eric Landau in an official statement.

The glitzy new pavilion at Old Fulton Street is comprised of three stone structures and features honey locust and ginkgo trees, as well as a roof topped with photovoltaic (solar) panels. An oculus can be seen at the top of the roof, connecting guests with the open air. Picnic tables dot the perimeter of the pavilion, inviting patrons to sit back, relax and take in the lush scenery and views. Also on site is the park’s first private family and gender-neutral restroom facilities. 

A cafe from Breads Bakery, the park’s newest partner, has also debuted, serving up a variety of pastries, including the brand's famous babka. 

Designed by Michael Van Valkenburgh Associates, construction of Brooklyn Bridge Park officially began in 2007, with Pier 1 being the first portion of the park to open three years later. The result: an 85-acre massive public green space along 1.3 miles of Brooklyn’s waterfront replete with playgrounds, athletic fields and open spaces, all overlooking the Brooklyn Bridge and Lower Manhattan. 

What was once practically an industrial parking lot and wasteland has become a much-loved destination and haven.

The addition of the new pavilion and entryway makes the park even more accessible. A huge milestone, indeed.