Yonkers River Reborn: From Parking Lot to Paradise

For decades, a vital section of Yonkers' Saw Mill River lay hidden beneath a parking lot in downtown. This waterway, once crucial for the city's industrial growth, was covered in the 1920s, creating Larkin Plaza. By 2000, the area had deteriorated significantly, prompting a move to restore the river.

The ambitious project, completed in September 2012, replaced the parking lot with a vibrant three-acre public park. The restored river now features waterfalls, a footbridge, boardwalks, and a tidal basin, breathing new life into the urban landscape. This transformation was not merely aesthetic; within six months of the river's flow resuming, the area began supporting aquatic life.

The restoration created 14,000 square feet of new aquatic habitat, including tidal and freshwater pools, which now support turtles, blue crabs, and even endangered American eels. Native riparian plants were also introduced, enhancing the food chain and attracting beneficial insects.

This redevelopment effort has been credited with catalyzing further urban renewal. The new park has not only become a hub for community activities, hosting events and a farmers' market, but has also inspired millions in new development projects, including renovations and new residential and mixed-use complexes, revitalizing Yonkers' downtown area.