The Dutch return to Governors Island
Sep 25, 2008 4:34 pm
The Prime Minister of the Netherlands, accompanied by the Dutch Minister of Foreign Affairs and Minister of European Affairs, came to Governors Island on Tuesday to celebrate the Island’s unique connection to their country. Four centuries ago, when the Dutch first settled here, they named the Island “Nut Island” after its abundant nut trees. During their visit earlier this week, the delegation recognized the Island’s past by planting a new nut tree. The Dutch are not only connected to the Island’s past however, but also its future. The Dutch firm of West 8 has been selected to lead the team that will design the future Governors Island Park and Great Promenade. The photo above shows Prime Minister Balkenende riding West 8’s concept of what a free bike might look like in the future park. Free bikes and other ideas will be explored more as the design process continues. Check back here for updates about the park planning process!