The High Line In Lower Manhattan Gets A New Leader

LOWER MANHATTAN, NY — The High Line is getting a new leader looking to push the park's transition into a public space that brings social, cultural and economic benefits to Lower Manhattan.

Friends of the High Line, the nonprofit that oversees the famous downtown space that winds its way through the West Village and Chelsea, announced Tuesday that Alan van Capelle will serve as its next executive director.

"I cannot wait to be a part of ushering in the High Line’s next chapter as we create new programming, reinforce our public art and performances, and connect more deeply with our surrounding community," van Capelle said in a news release. "I want this to be a place every New Yorker feels as excited to visit as the first time they came here.”

The Lower East Side resident currently serves as the president and CEO of the Educational Alliance, a network of economically-integrated community centers that support health and wellness, arts and culture, civic engagement and educational programs in Manhattan.

Friends of the High Line say that van Capelle is "ideally suited" to lead the High Line in its transition from its initial construction and expansion to a deeper focus on its "role as a dynamic public park and cultural institution."

Before Educational Alliance, van Capelle worked within the labor movement and headed the LGBTQ political advocacy organization Empire State Pride Agenda.

The High-Line opened in 2009 and has expanded to a 1.5-mile elevated stretch with gardens, art, performance, and food.

You can find out more about van Capelle and the High Line on its website.