Plans for Atlantic Basin

In 2009, NYC's Economic Development Corporation (the EDC) selected PortSide to create a waterfront hub and cultural space on Pier 11 in Atlantic Basin, Red Hook, Brooklyn.  The EDC announced that PortSide would have 600' of pier to program, space inside the Pier 11 shed, and use of the parking area south of the shed when the cruise terminal is not using it as the trucking staging area. We have run programs in Atlantic Basin in 2008, 2009 and 2010. 

Our plans for Atlantic Basin include direct service to the working waterfront; visiting vessels (from tugs to tall ships); more H2O arts, cultural tourism products and harbor advocacy; youth programs, a marine career center; and a maritime interpretive center—programs for diverse economic groups and individuals.

PortSide NewYork's maritime center will create an active waterspace, a year-round attraction that will provide an economic boost to Red Hook, B-to-B services to the marine industry, programs for the landside community, and a unique place where the public can come in contact with, and learn about, the working waterfront. 

PortSide works with and supports the working waterfront.  Our innovative approach is to turn it into a cultural and educational amenity and a community-enriching partner.

In preparation for being permanently sited in Atlantic Basin, PortSide is reviewing and updating earlier business plans. Major items under review include the following. A phased roll-out plan is expected:

Vessel Related Activity

• Visiting historic, charter and excursion vessels
• rest area for workboats
• ferry landing
• PortSide harbor tours

H2O Arts Cultural programs (see examples from Summer 2010)

• Talks, readings, movies, performances with a water theme
• WaterStories, NYC's first maritime heritage trail, to be located in Red Hook
• Maritime interpretive center (exhibits about contemporary water-related issues)

Social Service

• youth programs (Flotsam Project & small boat building)
• Marine Career Center (Classroom & career counsellor)
• Waterfront advocacy  

The Center will also house:

• Museum bookstore
• cafe/canteen
• Event rental space

Our signature asset, the tanker Mary A. Whalen, will be based here when not traveling to other communities.

Atlantic Basin is Port Authority property, leased to the EDC. Our plans need to be approved by both EDC and Port Authority and need to accommodate the major activities on site, the cruise terminal and Phoenix Beverage's importing and distribution facility.