Wagner Park, a cherished stretch of green space at the southern tip of Manhattan, has reopened. Wagner Park now serves as both a public gathering space and a model of climate-conscious urban planning.
Highlights
- Wagner Park reopened after a redesign under the SBPCR Project.
- The revitalized space includes enhanced landscaping, improved drainage systems, and flood-resilient infrastructure.
- Community events and free public programs are scheduled from August through October.
Wagner Park Made a Comeback After Upgrades
Wagner Park, located along the Hudson River in southern Battery Park City, officially reopened on July 29, 2025. The park closed in 2023 to undergo climate-resilient upgrades as part of the South Battery Park City Resiliency Project. Since 1997, the 3.5-acre park has offered recreational space and sweeping views of New York Harbor, including the Statue of Liberty.
The Battery Park City Authority (BPCA) manages the park, and it has been named after Robert F. Wagner, Jr., a public servant who helped shape Battery Park City’s Master Plan in 1979. The redesign was aimed at protecting the park from coastal flooding. Now, a 63,000-gallon underground rainwater management system has been installed. More native plants can now be found here.
A new pavilion featuring a restaurant is expected to open next year, serving as a hub for educational and cultural programming. The redesigned park is environmentally forward-thinking and offers breathtaking views.
Wagner Park Opening Season Program and Event Guide
The park’s reopening was marked by community celebrations. On the opening day, there was a concert at 7 pm by Taylor Mac. It was presented by Lower Manhattan Cultural Council in partnership with Battery Park City Authority.
A lineup of free public events kicks off on August 2 and runs through October. In addition to standalone events on select days and weekends, the schedule includes weekly programs. The events are designed to appeal to all ages and a variety of community interests. Here is the complete detail of all programs.
“Wagner Park is one of the crown jewels of our neighborhood, and its reopening is a celebration of what makes Lower Manhattan so special: lush public parkland that brings people together,” said Tammy Meltzer, Chair of Manhattan Community Board 1.
The city’s investment in resilient, sustainable public spaces shows that in New York, beauty goes hand-in-hand with function. The reopening of Wagner Park marks a significant step forward.
