The High Line in Manhattan is a perfect example of how urban spaces can be transformed into vibrant public parks, blending historical elements with modern design. Originally built in the 1930s as an elevated freight train line, the High Line was decommissioned in 1980 and left dormant for decades. But between 2006 and 2011, two sections of this viaduct were reborn as a unique urban park, offering New Yorkers and tourists alike a green oasis in the heart of the city.

At the core of this transformation was a need to marry the park’s industrial past with contemporary urban design. This is where Jakob Rope Systems came into play, offering their Webnet mesh to create a solution that would fulfill multiple roles—railing infill, safety net, and plant support—all while maintaining a clean, unobtrusive aesthetic that complements the High Line’s historic and modern elements.

A Brief History of the High Line
The High Line has a rich history that reflects the industrial growth of Manhattan. Constructed in the 1930s, it served as an elevated rail line that brought freight trains through the city’s west side, helping to transport goods and supplies to warehouses and factories. However, as the use of rail for freight transport dwindled, the High Line was decommissioned in 1980, and for many years it stood as a relic of the past.

Reviving the High Line: A New Vision for Urban Spaces
In the early 2000s, a movement began to repurpose the High Line into a public park. Architects James Corner Field Operations and Diller Scofidio + Renfro were tasked with the challenge of transforming this industrial structure into a vibrant green space that could serve as a respite from the urban jungle below. Their vision was to create a park that preserved the historical significance of the High Line while introducing elements of modern design and sustainability.

Jakob Rope Systems: The Perfect Partner for the Job
When it came to selecting materials that could meet the unique demands of the High Line project, Jakob Rope Systems’ Webnet mesh emerged as the ideal choice. The architects were drawn to Webnet for its versatility, durability, and minimalist aesthetic, which aligned perfectly with the park’s design philosophy.

Webnet as Railing Infill
One of the primary uses of Jakob Rope Systems’ Webnet mesh on the High Line was as a railing infill. The architects needed a solution that would provide safety for park visitors without obstructing the breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline and the surrounding urban landscape. Webnet’s transparent, stainless steel mesh was the perfect fit, offering a sturdy yet visually unobtrusive barrier that blends seamlessly with the park’s surroundings.

Safety Net: Ensuring Public Safety with Style
Safety was a top priority for the High Line’s designers, and Jakob Rope Systems’ Webnet mesh delivered on this front as well. The mesh’s strength and durability make it an excellent choice for safety netting, capable of withstanding the wear and tear of outdoor exposure while maintaining its structural integrity. Its unobtrusive design also ensures that safety measures do not detract from the park’s aesthetic appeal.

Plant Support: Bringing Greenery to Urban Spaces
In addition to its role as a railing infill and safety net, Webnet was also used as a plant support system on the High Line. The park’s designers wanted to incorporate greenery into the urban environment, creating vertical gardens and green walls that could thrive in the bustling city. Jakob Rope Systems’ Webnet mesh provided the perfect framework for these plants to grow, offering support that is both functional and visually appealing.