Manhattan Detention Complex Bridge Demolition does not signify the end of our efforts to save Chinatown
/On November 28th New York City Department of Design and Construction’s (DDC) weekly bulletin listed the demolition of the Manhattan Detention Center bridge over White St. Plaza as part of its update.
This was the first time the demolition of the bridge, which connects the North and South towers of the Manhattan Detention Complex, was listed in a DDC weekly bulletin.
The bulletin indicates that the area around the bridge will be cleared, and demolition would begin on Dec. 1
As of Thursday, December 1, 2022 demolition of the bridge has indeed begun, and all the artwork on the bridge has been removed. Demolition work is proceeding on the bridge structure starting with the removal of the glass block windows, and the ceiling of the bridge is now penetrated.
Despite reaching this step in the demolition process – bridge demolition does NOT mean an end to our efforts to save Chinatown from the years-long full demolition of the North and South towers of the Manhattan Detention Complex. In fact, the bridge removal has been expected and in no way impedes the Community plans for the adaptive reuse of the two jail towers.
We continue to advocate for an alternative to the proposed mega-jail reflecting a common sense solution that avoids prolonged impacts on our community that will surely be jarring, disruptive, and dangerous. Our community is unified in our message and actions directed towards a “win-win” for criminal justice reforms and the preservation of our fragile community and its residents.
NUBC and our local politicians continue our efforts in seeking support from the AAPI and Manhattan delegations in the city as well as state, and federal representatives. Building upon the existing jail, utilizing the innovative but proven method of adaptive reuse, is a win-win for Chinatown and an opportunity to protect our community while advancing the city’s vision for criminal justice reform and improved quality of life, both for Chinatown residents and detainees. The Community plan is also in full compliance with the City’s law of 2019 and therefore does not need the City Council to change the law.
Changes to the Manhattan Detention Complex can be done “as of right”.
DDC bulletin link: https://rikers.cityofnewyork.us/wp-content/uploads/BBJ-MDSS-Weekly-Bulletin-11.28.22-to-12.2.22_.pdf
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