P l a n N Y C | Planning Information Portal

Lincoln Center Redevelopment

Lincoln Center has embarked on a $1.2 billion, 10-year redevelopment master plan for the center's 16-acre complex. The master plan includes the rebuilding of the center's nine major cultural facilities, including the New York Philharmonic, the New York City Ballet, the Metropolitan Opera, and the Julliard School, and will be done in phases so performances can continue uninterrupted. Only Avery Fisher Hall, the home of the New York Philharmonic, will close because it will either be rebuilt or undergo major reconstruction beginning in April 2006. The first phase of the redevelopment is the West 65th Street Project. The $650 million project aims to unite 65th Street with the surrounding cityscape, extend the threshold of Lincoln Center and open up the campus to encourage the interaction of artists, students and the public. The designs were done by the architectural firm of Diller Scofidio + Renfro in collaboration with Fox & Fowle Architects. The plan will create a dynamic "Street of the Arts" spanning West 65th Street between Broadway and Amsterdam Avenue. The West 65th Street Project began construction earlier this spring and is expected to be completed by 2009.

Another improvement being made to the Lincoln Center complex is the addition of a promenade. The existing service road, accessed by Columbus Avenue leading up to the iconic staircase and Josie Robertson Plaza, will be sunk below street level in order to expand the staircase and create a more pedestrian friendly environment. Other minor alterations and upgrades will be made to the masonry and lighting on the plaza and fountain themselves as well. Construction on the promenade is expected to begin in Spring 2008.

Other important design elements included throughout the plan are: improved light and transparency, an active street level, a rooftop restaurant and public green lawn, increased pedestrian safety and accessibility, and improved information and directions.

Preservationists and landscape architects have spoken out against some elements of the redevelopment plan. Specifically they are concerned with plans to change the dimensions of the north plaza's reflecting pool, position of Henry Moore sculpture within the pool, and proposal to replace travertine planters with trees planted in ground and with free-standing chairs.

All aspects of Lincoln Center’s transformation are expected to be completed by 2009 in time for the 50th anniversary celebration for the cultural center.