Governors Island sits serenely in New York harbor. Its aquatic calm and fantastic views of the city are enjoyed only by the animal kingdom and 50 or so preservation workers. This mysterious lady of the harbor is usually seen by tourists criss-crossing on the Staten Island Ferry (natives rarely raise their eyes from the local paper or morning coffee to look out the windows). Still, few know much about the island and less have set foot there. This will soon change
Governors was purchased from two Indians in 1637 for a string of beads, a couple of axe heads and a handful of nails. Because of its strategic location, its use has long been for military purposes. After two centuries of restricted military use, the Federal Government transferred the island to the City and State of New York and the National Park Service (NPS) in 2003 for the envious sum of $1. A capital loss for the government but a profit for the people of the city. The terms of sale require that half the island be used for public purposes. City officials are evaluating plans for hotels, a museum, theaters and educational facilities. Work on some projects may start as early as 2008.
Naturally, ferry service is essential and the idea of a gondola ride may not be far fetched. A design by architect Santiago Calatrava has been submitted.
For the past three summers, The National Park Service has conducted public tours of the island. The weekday guided tours are scheduled to resume in June. So go there before the crowds hit.
For information about Governors Island, the development of the rest of the island and other NPS parks and sites visit:
NPS website for Governors Island
Governors Island Preservation and Education Corporation Website
Governors Island Alliance
NPS website for Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island
NPS website for NYC National Park Sites
NPS website for Gateway National Recreation Area
