A portion of the Manhattan Waterfront Greenway has been closed for repairs until spring 2025, affecting walkers, runners, and cyclists. The closure spans from 100th to 125th Streets, known as the Cherry Walk, along the Hudson River. Those who frequent this area have been rerouted onto Riverside Drive via a temporary detour.
The project, costing $1.5 million, aims to address issues such as bumps, roots, and potholes that have made the path challenging to navigate. With nearly 7,000 cyclists using the Hudson River Greenway daily, it is considered the busiest bike path in the United States. The closure has raised concerns among cycling advocates who fear that the detour may not be a safe alternative for commuters in Upper Manhattan.
The Cherry Walk had previously undergone repairs in 2020 due to damage from Superstorm Sandy and reopened in 2021. In addition to this current closure, another section of the path between W. 181st and Dyckman Streets is also closed to address a recurring sinkhole near W. 187th Street.
If the construction project stays on schedule, the path is expected to reopen in March. The closure of such a popular and heavily utilized area highlights the importance of ongoing maintenance and repairs to ensure the safety and accessibility of these public spaces for all community members. It’s a reminder that infrastructure needs regular upkeep to continue serving the needs of the public effectively.
