Welcome to the Archives of The Paul Rudolph Institute for Modern Architecture. The purpose of this online collection is to function as a tool for scholars, students, architects, preservationists, journalists and other interested parties. The archive consists of photographs, slides, articles and publications from Goldfinger’s lifetime; physical drawings and models; personal photos and memorabilia; and contemporary photographs and articles.

Some of the materials are in the public domain, some are offered under Creative Commons, and some are owned by others, including the Goldfinger Estate. Please speak with a representative of The Paul Rudolph Institute for Modern Architecture before using any drawings or photos in the Archives. In all cases, the researcher shall determine how to appropriately publish or otherwise distribute the materials found in this collection, while maintaining appropriate protection of the applicable intellectual property rights.

LOCATION
Address: Washington Square Park
City: New York
State: New York
Zip Code: 10012
Nation: United States

STATUS
Type: Recreation
Status: Project

TECHNICAL DATA
Date(s): 1960
Site Area:
Floor Area:
Height:
Floors (Above Ground):
Building Cost:

PROFESSIONAL TEAM
Client:
Architect: Myron Goldfinger
Associate Architect:
Landscape:
Structural:
MEP:
QS/PM:

SUPPLIERS
Contractor:
Subcontractor(s):

Washington Square Park

The project scope is to redesign Washington Square Park in New York City to include several plazas and an exhibition building.
In 1952, Robert Moses announced a redesign of the park. He proposed to construct two roads, each 38 feet wide, that would flank the Washington Square Arch and run through the park. He also proposed to construct new playgrounds, south of the Arch, between the two roads. Greenwich Village residents Shirley Hayes and Edith Lyons organized the Washington Square Park Committee to oppose Moses's plan.
In 1958, Ray Rubinow, Jane Jacobs, Eleanor Roosevelt, Margaret Mead, and Lewis Mumford form The Joint Emergency Committee to Close Washington Square Park to Traffic. The group launches a petition campaign and throws a park rally in support of closing Washington Square Park to traffic.
In October 1958, the Board of Estimate passes a resolution to authorize a temporary closing of the park to traffic.
In April, 1959 the Board of Estimate approves a policy statement for Washington Square Park, stating that the park was now closed to all but emergency vehicles.
In 1963, the Board of Estimate completes the legal process to forever clear the park from traffic.
In 1969, the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission designates Greenwich Village as an historic district and Washington Square Park is later renovated in 1970.