The ambitious Low Line Project proposal, which would transform a disused subway station into an underground park, has launched their Kickstarter campaign – and in less than 48 hours, it has already raised nearly $24,000. The subterranean park would infuse some much needed green space on the Lower East Side, without disrupting the current lay of the land. Designed by James Ramsey and Dan Barasch, the project has already begun moving forward and could be realized should their campaign be funded.

The Low Line park idea was conceived when Ramsey and Barasch learned of an abandoned trolley terminal, now called the Delancey Underground. Sprawling 60,000 square feet, the space has been abandoned since 1948, and it is roughly the size of Gramercy Park. The site is packed with vintage architectural accents that make it even more alluring: cobblestones, vaulted 20 foot ceilings, aged steel columns, and, of course, patterns of crisscrossing old trolley tracks. The duo was inspired by the look of the site and wanted to make it a unique park space.

The underground oasis would be lit by incredible sunlight irrigation system designed by Ramsey himself. A prototype system that collects sunlight from the surface and reflects it below has already been designed. With the solar distribution system, trees, plants and grasses could grow underground.

The park would also create a new market for local businesses like farmers, vendors, and sustainable product purveyors, as well as serving as a venue for art installations and community programming. Ramsey and Barasch’s dream is to provide a lush park that can be enjoyed by New Yorkers rain or shine.

Their Kickstarter campaign kicked off yesterday, and the enthusiastic start gives hope that the project will be funded and realized. Support the Low Line today!

+ Delancey Underground + Kickstarter Campaign