Bjarke Ingels Group reimagines abandoned power plant as family attraction

In Connecticut, a former coal-burning power plant outside New York City is set for transformation into a major family attraction called Manresa Wilds, with a planned opening in 2030. The abandoned facility has been largely inaccessible for 75 years and will become part of a 125-acre waterfront park that also aims to revitalize surrounding environmental features, such as wetlands and salt marshes. The project, spearheaded by the nonprofit Manresa Island Corporation, is designed by the renowned architecture firm Bjarke Ingels Group, known for innovative designs that repurpose existing structures for modern use. The decommissioned coal plant, which became operational in the 1950s, faced scrutiny and protests over environmental concerns during its operation and was finally shut down in 2013 following damages inflicted by Hurricane Sandy. The storm not only expedited the plant's closure but also inadvertently improved the surrounding ecosystem, leading to a resurgence in local wildlife, particularly the osprey population. Enhancing the area’s ecological richness, the park’s design will feature swimming pools, water slides, restaurants, and learning laboratories to foster both recreation and education. The architectural vision centers on incorporating existing industrial elements, such as the plant's boilers and turbine halls, into the attraction. The eight-story boiler building is to be repurposed with multiple swimming areas, while the turbine hall will host events and entertainment. Additionally, classrooms and research spaces will be established in an adjacent office building. Bjarke Ingels, the firm's founder, articulated a commitment to repurposing these “post-industrial cathedrals,” expressing hopes that this project will foster community interaction and an appreciation for both history and nature. Community benefits are a focal point of the initiative, as the project aims to support the local economy by providing access to waterfront recreational areas. There’s an emphasis on collaboration with local businesses and academic institutions to create job opportunities and deepen connections with the surrounding community. With a focus on sustainability and environmental responsibility, Manresa Wilds stands to breathe new life into an area marked by ecological damage, aiming to blend cultural, historical, and natural experiences into a unique destination for families.