Editor’s Note: We asked reader Karen Sunde for more information regarding the seating on Pier 45 and received this from her husband:
Originally, the shaded dais at the entry of pier 45 had at least six 4-seater metal tables for public use. They were heavily used for free by visitors, and even more would have been appreciated. Now the commercial food service across the pathway on the east side (Hudson Park Cafe) has purloined all the park-supplied free tables, and installed them on the east side for commercial use. It is a scandal, and an abuse of park-user/tax payer funds.
– Thomas Hoover
WestView looked into this issue and received the following statement of explanation from David Smith of Hudson River Park:
Hudson River Park knows that outdoor seating is a valuable amenity for park patrons to relax and appreciate the tranquility of the Park. Earlier this year, as a part of routine maintenance, Hudson River Park gradually withdrew the damaged tables and chairs located at Pier 45 to be restored. Outdoor seating at Hudson River Park’s Pier 45 will be replaced beginning this week. We apologize to park patrons for the delay of these repairs and appreciate the community’s patience and understanding as we work to build and maintain the Park for all to enjoy.
