5. People Want to Go to Hart Island

People certainly want to visit the island. In 2017 the legal settlement was modified to allow more visitors because of the demand. There weren’t many signs of unauthorized visitors on the island (although there were a few graffiti tags) when we visited, but intrepid photographers have managed to find their way on from time to time and, most tragically, in 2003 four teenagers from nearby City Island drowned in what was likely an attempt to visit the island. Instead of making visiting Hart Island either a dangerous adventure – one which only a few people are likely to even attempt – or a long and onerous process, having truly open access would mean many more people can visit, and in a safe way.

Stay tuned for our full photo essay from our visit to Hart Island last week. Next, check out the 10 NYC Parks Spots that are Closed Off to the Public and discover the Top 10 Secrets of Hart Island.