Developer may destroy part of High Line

Supporters of the High Line cheered last May when Related Cos. was designated to develop the sprawling Hudson Yards site on the far West side. They noted that the big developer had pledged to maintain the portions of the elevated freight rail line that ran along the site’s perimeter. The entire line is in the process of being turned into a park.

Developers plans worry High Line backers

But four months later, supporters are questioning Related’s commitment. In August, Related presented a preliminary plan to a community group that failed to show a piece of the High Line known as the spur on the eastern half of the yard. In addition, documents filed as part of the rezoning process show that one of Related’s towers on the western end of the yard would hang over the High Line, obscuring the view to the Hudson River. The documents also say that Related might tear down portions of the High Line to facilitate construction on the site, but that they would be rebuilt. Some fear that once those portions have been dismantled they won’t ever be reassembled.