The Waterfront Area is a special zoning area protecting both human and nature needs to ensure optimal use, public access, recreation and unwinding.
A Waterfront Area is defined as an area or lot adjacent to a body of water that is at least 100 feet wide. Buildings and blocks included in the Waterfront Area are those between the pierhead line and a parallel line 800 feet landward from the shoreline. (nyc.gov)
The first special zoning regulation in NYC considering waterfront development went into effect in 1993 and addresses the form, size and location of new development, as well as overseeing the required waterfront public access areas. It mandates special bulk and use regulations from waterfront blocks, piers and even floating structures, together with customizable and site-specific needs expressed through Waterfront Access Plans (WAPs). (nyc.gov)
Together with construction and development requirements, the waterfront zoning also comprises components unique to its category, such as connections, sightlines, pedestrian circulation corridors, visual components, and green areas, optimizing the limited amount of waterfront. (elegran.com)
In the past years, the Waterfront Area has been revalued as an important part of the green spaces in the city, creating urban backyards and places for relaxation. An example is Battery Park City with the well renowned Hudson River promenade, envisioned as an area for the many working people in the Financial District of NYC.
