Gateway National Recreation Area (Gateway) is an example of how natural and urban ecologies can coexist and enrich each other. Gateway has a diverse estuarine wildlife habitat, serving 330 bird species. It is an important stopover for migratory birds traveling on the Atlantic Americas Flyway. Yet it is located adjacent to New York City, which is a global capital, the most populous city in the United States and one of the Largest urban areas in the world. This unique ecosystem is a mere 50-minute subway ride from Times Square and situated next door to John F. Kennedy International Airport.

This report offers information and analytical work for designers, planners, and the many stakeholders and jurisdictions in hopes of inspiring a series of propositions to transform Gateway. The report positions Gateway in global, national, regional and local contexts. It examines Gateway’s potential role in relation to the national parks network and its significance as an ecological, cultural and recreational resource...