East River Esplanade Closure Frustrates Manhattan Residents for Fourth Summer

For the fourth year in a row, Manhattan residents are unable to enjoy a key section of the East River Esplanade due to ongoing construction near the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS).

The closure, which spans from East 70th to 78th streets, is tied to the ongoing work on HSS’s Kellen Tower that began in March 2022. A locked gate now blocks what would otherwise be a continuous stretch of riverside park.

“We don’t want it to be a fifth, and there doesn’t seem to be any end in sight,” said Jennifer Ratner, chair of Friends of the East River Esplanade. “Last year, they told us this year. You know, this year they're saying, ‘Oh well, we'll have another community board meeting in October.’”

The disruption has forced walkers, runners, and cyclists off the esplanade and into city traffic. Ratner’s group is pushing for a waterfront alternative, saying, “A safe and permanent, or semipermanent, like a pontoon, to make a detour that stays on the waterfront.”

A petition to stop the prolonged closure has already gathered hundreds of signatures.

Responding to the outcry, the Hospital for Special Surgery emphasized the complex nature of the work. “The timeline reflects the complexity of restoring public waterfront infrastructure,” the hospital stated, adding that unexpected challenges, such as sinkholes, have added to delays.

HSS noted the reopening will be phased, involving coordination with the Parks Department, Department of Transportation, and Con Edison.

NYC Parks Borough Commissioner Tricia Shimamura stated, “Rebuilding the East River Esplanade is a top priority. We are undertaking a multi-phase rehabilitation project to transform this deteriorating waterfront into a resilient, revitalized public space. By investing in these critical infrastructure repairs today, we're ensuring that New Yorkers can safely enjoy the esplanade for years to come.”

The esplanade segment from 70th to 76th streets is expected to reopen by March 2026, while the timeline for the 76th to 78th segment depends on the Parks Department's progress.

Despite the ongoing frustration, locals are still hopeful. “You come here to relax,” said Upper East Side resident George de Hoios. “You don’t have to cut in the traffic, into the stress.”

Rachel Katz, another resident, echoed the sentiment. “That would be a dream. That would be the best,” she said about finally seeing the gate removed.

Community Efforts and Future Advocacy

‍Friends of the East River Esplanade are not just advocating for reopening but are also working with local officials to improve public awareness and accountability. A proposal for a temporary floating walkway is under consideration, and residents have voiced support for increased transparency and progress updates from city and hospital officials.

Urban Park Access & Infrastructure Gaps

‍This situation highlights a broader challenge faced by many urban waterfront parks—balancing public access with critical infrastructure upgrades. With rising climate risks and aging public assets, city planners are increasingly tasked with managing long-term projects while minimizing community disruption.

What’s at Stake?

The East River Esplanade serves not only as a recreational corridor but as a vital connector between neighborhoods. Its closure has impacted local quality of life, active commuting, and even mental health for residents who rely on it as a place to unwind along the water.

Originally reported by Vanessa Murdock in CBS News.