Skybridge Proposed for a Pair of 5th Avenue Flatiron Buildings
Not-for-profit Simons Foundation has submitted proposals to construct a skybridge connecting a pair of boutique office buildings located at 160 and 162 Fifth Avenue in the Flatiron District. The corner buildings are separated by West 21st Street and the addition of the proposed $40 million glass skybridge would facilitate staff and visitors traversing between the two buildings, as well as the transport of equipment. Although not mimicking the historical style of either of the two buildings — 160 Fifth Avenue’s Neo Renaissance style (1892) and 162 Fifth Avenue’s Beaux Arts style (1903), the glass pedestrian skybridge to be designed by architectural firm Perkins Eastman “will still blend elegantly into New York’s dreamy skyline.” Proposals for the skybridge were prompted by Simons’ rapid expansion leading to “programmatic activities now taking place across both buildings.” Permission from both the city’s Department of Transportation (DOT) and Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) will be required prior to the foundation that focuses on science and math research can proceed with construction, that contingent upon city approvals Simons hopes to complete by 2026.