4. Brooklyn Bridge Beach
The beaches surrounding the Brooklyn Bridge on both sides are an example of a failed plan by the New York government to open up accessible beaches near Manhattan. In 2016, the city decided the waters were too polluted and tumultuous to accommodate an expensive project that initially included amenities like a kayak launch and fishing area.
Last year, the city decided to open the beach up to the public for one day only, on July 14th, in honor of City of Water Day. The tradition was continued this year and the site played host to a kayak race. The openings of Brooklyn Bridge Beach are the result of community activism and a good deal of planning and organizing on the part of the Waterfront Alliance. Hopefully, the city will eventually be able to open the beach for good so we can enjoy its kayak-worthy waves every day of the year.