Skyscrapers on Railway: Hudson Yards | OMOS 

Skyscrapers on Railway: Hudson Yards | OMOS
Current conditions:
Hudson Yards has evolved from an industrial area to a vibrant Midtown Manhattan landmark, boasting iconic structures such as 50 Hudson Yards, The Spiral, and the temporarily closed Vessel. Its mix of skyscrapers, shopping, The Shed arts center, and connection to the High Line exemplify dynamic urban renewal, marking its pivotal role in New York City's urban transformation.
Midtown v.s. downtown:
New York's urban development began in Lower Manhattan, evolving into a densely built area with numerous high-rise office buildings and establishing itself as the city's original center. As growth continued, Midtown Manhattan emerged as another key business hub, with the modern Hudson Yards development situated within this vital Midtown area, marking the city's ongoing expansion and transformation.
Hudson Yards as a neighborhood:
The Hudson Yards development signifies a monumental shift in New York City's urban landscape, transitioning from an industrial zone closely linked with the city's railway system to a vibrant mixed-use neighborhood with skyscrapers, public spaces, and significant infrastructure projects like the renovation of the Port Authority Bus Terminal and the construction of the Hudson Tunnel Project. This transformation, marked by the collaboration between private developers and public projects, not only enhances Midtown Manhattan's connectivity but also establishes Hudson Yards as a pivotal addition to New York City's evolving urban fabric.
Rezoning:
The redevelopment of Hudson Yards into a bustling area with new constructions and future projects responds to New York's need to compete with global cities by enhancing commercial space to attract businesses and talent. Initiated in the 1950s and significantly advanced in 2005 under Mayor Bloomberg, this transformation turned industrial land into a mixed-use district, initially including plans for a stadium for the 2012 Olympics bid that were later abandoned.
City planning:
Urban planning in Hudson Yards involves integrating public infrastructure, such as the Number 7 Line subway extension, with private and public development efforts. To finance significant projects like the subway extension and a large platform over the rail yards, the New York City government employed a financial strategy that included issuing bonds, banking on future tax revenue from the area's development. This approach facilitated the area's transformation, allowing for the construction of critical infrastructure and attracting further investment to boost the city's tax base.
Private development:
Hudson Yards' development, facilitated by government groundwork, has seen significant private investment, notably from Related Companies and Oxford Properties for a project that's attracting international finance, including through the EB-5 program. Phase 1's completion introduces office spaces, luxury homes, and retail, while Phase 2's plans, possibly including a casino, remain open amid financial and pandemic-related uncertainties. This project exemplifies the transformative impact of Hudson Yards on New York City's urban development, highlighting its potential amidst evolving economic conditions.
Chapters:
00:00 Intro
00:10 Current conditions
02:50 Midtown v.s. downtown
03:24 Hudson Yards as a neighborhood
08:50 Rezoning
10:30 City planning
13:22 Private development