NYC's railroad park launches new extension

(Barry Munger/The High Line on Facebook)

New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg has officially opened an extension to the High Line Park, one of the city's most popular attractions.

The High Line, a city park built on a chunk of elevated railroad, became an instant hit with both visitors and locals when it opened in Manhatten in 2009, attracting over four million visitors to date.

As of this week, there's even more of it to enjoy, with Section 2 doubling the length to a mile (1.6km) between Gansevoort Street to West 30th Street, connecting the Meatpacking District, West Chelsea, and Midtown West.

From the new section, visitors can enjoy new views of the Chrysler Building, the Empire State Building, and the New Yorker Hotel, stepping between the original railroad tracks and art-deco railings.

Like the rest of the park, the wildlife is inspired by the self-seeded landscape which grew naturally on the tracks when the trains stopped running back in 1980.

"The High Line is already a world-renowned destination and New York City icon, and with the addition of Section Two, it makes for an even more enjoyable experience," said Bloomberg.

"The second half-mile adds different views and new features, making it distinct from the first section but no less remarkable."

The opening of the new section coincides with a new summer public art program, which will see a new temporary plaza opened under the High Line at 30th Street, new art commissions and a week-long "Step to the High Line" dance festival between June 13 and 18.

Learn more: http://www.thehighline.org/