Background

• Manhattan West, a major mixed-use development in Midtown Manhattan, is part of a broader effort to enhance the area's urban connectivity and pedestrian experience.

• A key component of this development is the Moynihan Connector, a pedestrian bridge system linking Moynihan Train Hall with Brookfield’s Manhattan West complex, improving access to Penn Station and surrounding transit hubs. The connector consists of two distinct bridge structures, each designed with a unique material and engineering approach:

  • Timber Bridge

    • This structure is one of New York City’s first mass timber pedestrian bridges, showcasing sustainable design and innovation.

    • It spans a former service road and integrates glulam beams and cross-laminated timber (CLT) to provide a warm, natural aesthetic.

    • The use of timber not only reduces the project's carbon footprint but also highlights its structural efficiency and durability.

  • Steel Bridge

    • A weathering steel truss bridge that spans active rail tracks is designed for long-term durability and structural resilience.

    • It ensures uninterrupted pedestrian movement between Penn Station and the Manhattan West development.

    • The steel truss design complements the industrial character of the surrounding rail infrastructure.

• These two bridges reinforce New York City's commitment to sustainable urban development while enhancing pedestrian mobility. The project represents a fusion of historic preservation, modern engineering, and sustainable materials, setting a precedent for future infrastructure projects in dense urban environments.