High Line Moynihan Connector, New York

Bridging journeys in Midtown Manhattan

Linking the High Line—one of the most prominent pedestrian paths in New York City—to the Moynihan Train Hall, the Connector creates a seamless journey upon a 600-foot linear park from the bustling avenues of Midtown West to the lush gardens and scenic public walkways of the High Line.

Designed by SOM and James Corner Field Operations, the Connector features a timber bridge made from sustainably sourced wood and a woodland bridge built upon weathered columns and angled brackets that evoke the historic structure of the elevated High Line. With gathering spaces, gardens for native pollinators, public art installations, and millions of visitors a year, this public walkway establishes a vital thoroughfare that is accessed day and night in all seasons.

A lighting solution for a busy, urban walkway

When considering the lighting design for the bridge, Tillotson Design Associates needed a fixture that could withstand mounting under a walking surface that was not watertight. WE-EF’s DAC240 surface mounted luminaires were chosen for their marine-grade aluminum and 5CE+ Primer anti-corrosion coating which ensure long-lasting performance backed by a 10-year warranty. A medium beam spread with a linear spread lens was selected to control light where it is needed and avoid any light spill. The design blends seamlessly into the timber bridge and surrounding urban landscape, providing minimal visual impact on the vehicles below during the day, and warm, ambient lighting for people passing under the bridge at night.

Results

The installation of DAC240 ensures pedestrian safety and creates an inviting journey to the elevated Connector, helping to realize a decades long transformation of a former industrial area into a community-oriented destination.

Credits

New York, NY Completed 2023 Owner: Brookfield Properties – New York Architect/Designer: SOM Landscape Designer: James Corner Field Operations Lighting Designer: Tillotson Design Associates WE-EF Products: DAC240 Photographer: Andrew Frasz Photography