Earlier this year Governors Island announced they would open for the season one month early. And now, for the first time ever (in its incarnation as a public space at least) the island will remain open for an extra month as well, through October 31st. This means we're getting a Night of 1,000 Jack O’ Lanterns on the bucolic island, and a number of other fall events are being planned, as well. The main event, of course, will be staring at the fall foliage.
"Autumn is the most visually striking time to visit Governors Island, with vibrant foliage in our park and historic scenery unlike anywhere else in New York City,” said Michael Samuelian, president of the Trust for Governors Island.
The announcement was made on Wednesday. In it, Samuelian adds, "With the inclusion of October, visitors are now able to take advantage of one of the region’s most unique public spaces during the spring, summer, and fall." So how close are we to getting access all year long?
In 2016, Mayor de Blasio unveiled his vision for Governors Island, which he hopes to make a year-round center of culture, commerce and innovation. De Blasio commented on the extended season today, insinuating it was a step forward towards his goal—"As we work to increase livability, affordability, safety and equity in this great City, I am incredibly proud that beginning this fall—and for the first time—Governors Island will be open to the public from May through October. This is a true milestone, and one that exemplifies how New York City is investing in our amazing parks to ensure it’s a city everyone can enjoy."
