The Jacky Robinson statue outside the Jacky Robinson Museum in Hudson Square is receiving a makeover thanks to a $4.5 million state grant. The eight-foot bronze sculpture is just one of many projects funded by the grant, announced by Gov. Kathy Hochul. The upgrades are part of the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward program, with a focus on revitalizing the commercial neighborhood at the entrance to the Holland Tunnel.
Who is Getting a Makeover?
The Jacky Robinson Museum in Hudson Square, a neighborhood in Manhattan’s West Side, is undergoing significant changes. The museum will soon feature an eight-foot-tall bronze statue of the barrier-breaking baseball legend Jacky Robinson. The statue is intended to honor Robinson’s legacy as the first major league baseball player to break the color barrier and join the MLB.
What Are the Upgrades?
In addition to the Jacky Robinson statue, the grant will fund several projects aimed at revitalizing the Hudson Square neighborhood. One major upgrade is the creation of the Hudson-Houston Plaza, a new green public space at the corner of West Houston and Hudson Streets. The project aims to transform an underused city lot into a pedestrian-friendly plaza. Another project will expand public gathering spaces and create interactive neighborhood experiences, including a block of Little 6th Avenue being transformed into a permanent plaza.
Why Does It Matter?
The upgrades in Hudson Square are part of a larger effort to enhance the neighborhood’s vibrancy and create more opportunities for residents and visitors. The projects will bring more green spaces and gathering areas to the area, improving the overall street-level experience. The state’s investment in downtown areas like Hudson Square is not just about funding projects but creating vibrant communities that promote economic growth and enhance residents’ quality of life.
