Waterfront Access
Only one-third of the New York–New Jersey Harbor Estuary’s waterfront is accessible to the public.
The Issue
There are still physical and social barriers to waterfront access.
While the New York and New Jersey region has already benefited from major waterfront revitalization and has opened new recreational opportunities to many across communities, the majority of improvements have taken place in communities that already enjoy some of the greatest access to financial resources and political visibility.
Lower-income communities and historically marginalized groups often face more obstacles in accessing these spaces. This is due to systemic issues, such as historic disinvestment. Ensuring equitable access to waterfronts is essential for promoting environmental justice and enhancing the overall quality of urban life.
To address this, robust data must be utilized that accounts for social needs and historical disinvestment. Without this data analysis, decisions about waterfront recreation investments are more likely to be based on political power, visibility, and existing resources instead of actual community needs.
As cities grow and evolve, the need for accessible, open spaces become increasingly important for fostering community well-being and environmental stewardship. By addressing physical barriers, promoting social equity, and ensuring resiliency, cities can transform their waterfronts into vibrant, inclusive public realms that benefit all residents.
Our Approach
Advocate for equitable waterfront development.
Waterfront Alliance works to improve water access and community engagement in waterfront development, aiming for equitable, healthy, and resilient coastal communities. Our study, “Activating New York City-Owned Waterfront Sites for Recreation and Access,” assesses underutilized city-owned sites for potential transformation into safe, accessible waterfronts. This study considers factors like site accessibility, management, investment needs, safety hazards, and community interest.
Using a ranking system based on metrics such as demographic data and physical site conditions, Waterfront Alliance identifies community needs and site suitability. Collaborations with groups like local community-based organizations showcase successful advocacy for waterfront activation.
The WEDG® (Waterfront Edge Design Guidelines) help design safe, engaging waterfronts, while the 2026 Waterfront and Resilience Platform recommends zoning and permitting changes to enhance access and community involvement. Waterfront Alliance also promotes greenways and green infrastructure to manage stormwater and reduce flooding.
Waterfront Alliance’s efforts are crucial in driving these changes and ensuring that waterfronts not only provide recreational and social benefits but also enhance urban resilience against climate change.
Public Access Along Your Waterfront: A How-To Guide
The New York and New Jersey harbor provides recreational, environmental, social, and economic benefits to the region. Yet access is not equally distributed. Waterfront Alliance created this guide to help New York City community organizations utilize underused waterfront areas and address past disinvestment.
Maritime Activation Plan
Work with us to redefine the potential of your waterfront! Through in-depth stakeholder interviews, research, and on-the-ground work, our team provides you with a list of recommendations to help you make the best use of your waterfront.
Open Spaces Report
Download "Activating New York City-Owned Waterfront Sites for Recreation and Access: Action Plans for Four Underutilized Sites in High-Need Communities"
