UNDERGROUND GARDEN PLANNED FOR NEW YORK

Located at the former Williamsburg Bridge Trolley Terminal in Manhattan, the Lowline aims to show how technology can be used to transform cities. In addition to providing a place for relaxing, activities and cultural events, the Lowline will also seek to overcome its subterranean limitations and promote the growth of a rich variety of plants and trees.

In order to provide the light that plants and trees need to grow and to illuminate the space generally, sunlight will be collected via reflective parabolas above ground. These will be placed in areas that receive plenty of sunlight throughout the year and will be able to align themselves to face the sun as it moves, maximising exposure.

The light will then be directed underground via fibre-optic cables and transmitted to reflective dishes on the ceiling of the space that will direct and distribute it down into the space. The technology is said to transmit the wavelengths of light necessary for photosynthesis, which will allow plants and trees to grow.

Work is ongoing with the Metropolitan Transportation Authority and the City of New York to bring the Lowline to fruition.

It is hoped that construction will begin by 2017 and the park will open the following year.