So far, the plan has satisfied major advocacy groups. “What we don’t want to see is a gated community, but that’s not what I think we’re going to get,” said Rob Pirani, executive director of the Governors Island Alliance, a coalition that has supported public uses for the island. A healthy mix of development would keep the island vibrant throughout the year, he said, adding that the group’s main concern is protecting the open space by making it publicly administered parkland, instead of privately owned public space.
“I think it’s clear the mayor wants this to be a major part of his legacy, so I really think we’re going to see a lot of energy and leadership over the next three years,” Pirani said. “It really is going to be a great thing for the island.”
Correction: A previouse version of this article misstated the acreage of northern and southern portions of the island, the date of the plan’s release, and when construction is expected to begin. AN regrets the errors.
