Overview
Pier 40 is a massive pier located at West Houston Street within Hudson River Park in Manhattan. Originally built as a shipping terminal in 1962, it now serves as a multi-purpose sports and recreation facility within the park.
Facilities
Athletic Fields: Pier 40 features a large rooftop athletic field complex with turf fields for sports like soccer, baseball, and football. The fields are open for permitted groups and informal public use.
Parking Garage: A large public parking garage operates within Pier 40, generating revenue to support Hudson River Park's maintenance.
River Project Wetlab: An environmental education center focused on the Hudson River estuary is located on the pier.
Trapeze School: New York City's only outdoor trapeze school is situated on Pier 40's rooftop.
History
Built in 1962 as a passenger and freight terminal for the Holland America Cruise Line.
Used by various shipping lines until 1983, then acquired by New York State for the failed Westway highway project.
Designated as parkland in 1998 and reopened in 2005 as part of Hudson River Park after renovations.
Future Plans
Critical infrastructure repairs are underway to fix Pier 40's roof and supportive piles.
Proposals have been made to sell air rights above the pier to fund repairs and park operations.
Access
Located at 353 West Street, accessible from the Houston Street subway station (1 train) and M21 bus.
Parking available in the on-site garage.
Part of the larger Hudson River Park which stretches 4 miles along Manhattan's west side.