A Park Grows in Brooklyn

Brooklyn drew me in when I was a teenager in high school and attended a summer architecture program at Pratt Institute.  We would often walk or catch the bus over to Brooklyn Heights and stroll along the Promenade - who knew then that years later, I would live here.  After living in Manhattan for a few years, I moved to Brooklyn and never looked back.  Over the years, Brooklyn just continues to get better - it is truly the better borough:)!  The latest thing to get excited over is the development of the Brooklyn Bridge Park.   The 20 years spent by community advocates to get the piers along the waterfront developed into a beautiful waterfront park, is finally paying off.  The unbelievably lush green open lawns, baby trees and plants, modern wooden benches everywhere and paths all overlooking one of the most celebrated views of lower Manhattan, is truly the best spot for families, lovers, friends, and anyone who just wants to enjoy the great outdoors!  As if the landscaping was not romantic enough, throw in the River and views of both the Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges.  DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass - the name by the way, was developed by artists who lived in the area in an effort to detract real estate developers - so much for that), will undoubtedly be one of the hippest locations in NY.  The park is slated to be completed by 2013. Pier one however is open now and is just to the left of 2 of my favorite places - The River Cafe and Ignazio's Pizza.  Most people - out-of-towners no doubt, line up at Grimaldi's for their infamous pizza.  Last summer however with a friend, I discovered Ignazio's - right around the corner, no lines and a much better view - oh, did I mention better pizza?   I will have more on the River Cafe which was frankly, one of the first and longest lasting restaurants to bravely develop in the area in the early 70's despite the many naysayers and banks that turned  Michael O'Keefe down when he found the location.    Last night, my friend Chris and I walked his dog Max and I took these shots - went back this morning and captured more - I think it's safe to say that night or day, this park is terrific!  

Also, take a look at this cool construction worker - while all of his colleagues donned construction hats, he sported his cool cowboy hat with reflective sunglasses - stylish man, working on a stylish park.