Lower Manhattan’s eastern edge exists as a complex precinct, defined by the conflicting demands of connecting traffic flows between the Brooklyn Bridge and the FDR Drive as well as defining the identities of the civic, cultural, commercial and residential areas. This urban design plan proposes specific strategies that capitalize on the critical location, scale and landmark beauty of the Brooklyn Bridge to connect rather than divide Lower Manhattan.

The scope of the project includes: improving vehicular and pedestrian connections, simplifying and beautifying the FDR approach ramps to the bridge, identifying opportunities for new economic activities, creating compelling and secure public landscapes and parks, linking areas north and south of the bridge and connecting the civic center to the waterfront.