The Vessel to reopen with new safety measures in Manhattan

Tuesday, April 16, 2024

The Vessel, a renowned climbable sculpture located in the Hudson Yards development on Manhattan’s west side, is set to reopen later this year with significant safety enhancements, following its closure due to multiple suicides. Before its closure in 2021, the sculpture had been a major draw for tourists, attracting large numbers with its unique honeycomb-like structure and the panoramic views it offered from its numerous stairways and platforms.

According to a spokesperson from Related Companies, the owners of Hudson Yards, the Vessel will incorporate new steel mesh barriers designed to prevent future tragedies. These barriers will be installed along several of the structure’s levels, although the topmost level of the 150-foot (46-meter) structure will remain inaccessible to the public. The exact date for when the Vessel will welcome visitors again has not been confirmed, but it is expected to be within this year.

Originally designed by Thomas Heatherwick and fabricated in Venice, the Vessel opened in 2019 and quickly became a key attraction within the newly developed Hudson Yards neighborhood. However, its popularity was overshadowed by safety concerns after three suicides occurred in less than a year, leading to its initial closure in early 2021.

Following these incidents, the structure was briefly reopened with additional safety measures such as enhanced security, suicide prevention signage, and restrictions against ascending the structure alone. Despite these efforts, the absence of barriers led to further criticism when another tragic incident occurred, involving a young visitor. This prompted another closure, during which time further safety measures were considered.

The new safety enhancements, particularly the introduction of cut-resistant, durable steel mesh that can withstand harsh weather conditions without obstructing views, have been implemented to address these concerns. These changes aim to balance safety with the aesthetic qualities of the structure, ensuring that it remains a visually appealing yet secure destination for tourists.

Jessica Chait, chair of the Manhattan community board, acknowledged the improvements but expressed that these safety measures were long overdue. She emphasized the necessity of prioritizing visitor safety, reflecting community and official demands that had been vocalized following the initial incidents.

[Image Source: Architectural Digest]

« Back to Page

• Pattaya unveils first ghostbuster-themed attraction

• Disneyland Paris unveils major theme park overhaul

• Subic reboots cruise tourism with Royal Caribbean arrival

• Oklahoma’s film industry spurs major tourism growth

• Water park in Lagoa launches season with new sustainability focus