Led by WXY on behalf of the environmental justice organization UPROSE, the Sunset Park BOA (Brownfield Opportunity Area) Study was one of the first steps in exploring the reimagination of Sunset Park as a model for green industry and sustainable urban development.
Aerial view of the Sunset Park Brownfield Opportunity Area.
Despite the area's potential, Sunset Park faced significant hurdles. It had a large concentration of brownfields because of its industrial past. The plan required addressing both the environmental hazards, the needs of businesses and industry in the area, and local access to a new waterfront park.
Functional zoning diagram of Sunset Park highlights areas for industry, retail, and residential services.
Our innovative approach layered public and private use cases across strategic sites while emphasizing public access to the waterfront. We identified catalytic sites that could help spur industrial revitalization, particularly those with the potential to attract green industries. By working with public and private stakeholders, we outlined a roadmap for transforming brownfields into eco-friendly industrial hubs that integrate seamlessly with Sunset Park's broader community goals, including jobs, green business practices, and greater waterfront access.
Rendering of the strategic framework for Sunset Park outlines key sites, access routes, and organizational investments.
Throughout our planning process, we engaged with local businesses, community leaders, and environmental justice advocates to create a framework for the area's redevelopment. This collaborative approach ensured the project aligned with the community's needs, addressing sustainable development and creating economic opportunities.
Multi-modal distribution plan for Sunset Park integrates rail, waterways, and trucking routes.
Building typology map categorizes Sunset Park structures, illustrating diverse floorplate designs.
The Sunset Park BOA initiated significant transformation in the district. Since its completion, the New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) has invested nearly $1.5 billion in public and private funds across the 200-acre Sunset Park District along the South Brooklyn waterfront. The Brooklyn Army Terminal alone has over 100 tenants that have helped create over 4,000 jobs.
Green infrastructure continues to be a critical strategic initiative, exemplified by Equinor making the South Brooklyn Marine Terminal its home and developing one of the nation's largest offshore wind port facilities.
Rendering of streetscape enhancements that manage stormwater , pedestrian access, and green infrastructure.
Enhanced BQE underpass design integrates lighting, public art, and bioswales to improve safety and aesthetics.
Keywords
- Culture
- Mobility
- Brownfields
- Resiliency
- Social Justice
- Economic Development
Type
- Infrastructure
- Strategic Plans
Awards
Outstanding Brownfield Opportunity Area Study, New Partnership for Community Revitalization
Related Projects
