Part of Penn Station is actually getting a facelift (woohoo!). Behind high temporary fences, a Roy Lichtenstein pop art sculpture, not too dissimilar from the one inside the Tweet Courthouse downtown, and a Keith Haring sculpture were installed. 33rd Street has been closed off for a car-free summer plaza called Plaza 33, hosted by Vornado Realty Trust. This comes just after the launch of a new extended sidewalk on 32nd Street, between 6th and 7th Avenue, a colorful design by the 34th Street Partnership.
On the walls of Madison Square Garden are promotional banners: “WHAT IF the miracle was actually on 33rd Street?”, “WHAT IF you didn’t rush home during rush hour?”WHAT IF there was a plaza a Penn Plaza?”.
The New York City-based firm W Architecture, which also did the West Harlem Piers Park, has designed the temporary plaza on 33rd Street. So far, a lighted, tiered stage for performances can be seen and a historical marker, and a security guard told us that there will be a food hall as well.
Though the new plaza was supposed to go live July 18th, it looks like construction is just partially underway at this point.
Michelle is the founder of Untapped New York and the author of The Art Spy (HarperOne, forthcoming) Secret Brooklyn, Secret New York Hidden Bars & Restaurants, and Broadway. michelleyoungwriter.com
