For years, a section of the former elevated freight railroad in Manhattan, New York lay in disrepair. The High Line was opened in 1934 as a solution to hazards caused by street-level railroads in the city, but the drop in rail traffic during the 50s and 60s led to the gradual demolition of most of the line, and the eventual disuse of it entirely in 1980. It was slated for demolition until 1999, when a couple of neighborhood residents created a community group to push the idea of turning the High Line into an elevated park. In 2004 the NYC government committed $50 million to establish the park, and in 2005 obtained a certificate removing most of the line from the national railway system. Construction began on April 10th, 2006.
Today, the 1.45 mile park integrates elements from its former use, remaining rails and ties, with over 210 species of plants, some of which were inspired by the self-seeded plants that grew on the disused tracks. The park also has long-term plans to host temporary installations and performances of various kinds to maintain a cultural aspect to the area.
