3. There Was Support for Brooklyn Bridge Park to Become a ‘Passive Park’

A self-proclaimed Brooklynite, Tony Manheim zealously advocated for the construction of Brooklyn Bridge Park. Due to his tireless efforts, he eventually became the point man for the Brooklyn Bridge Park Coalition and adopted the nickname, the “founding father of the park.”

Interestingly, his vision was mostly green and largely passive. Although he saw some potential maritimes uses for the site (with plans for outdoor playing fields), he largely advocated for a green space reserved for reading, sitting and walking — not roller-skating and other activities that take place today.