Manhattan's East side could soon look a lot like the West.
For decades we've heard about plans to create a continuous 32-mile loop around Manhattan where people can walk, run or bike.
The city is showing off the design plans to fill in a large gap in that loop — between 53rd and 61st Streets — with a new waterfront promenade.
The Mayor toured the site of the new $100 million promenade today.
Elected officials say the expansion will meet a long time need.
"To see year by year West-siders get more and more access to the water has been a really wonderful thing," the mayor said. "But you know what, East-siders deserve it too. Simple, simple point. East-siders deserve access to the water too, and we have the opportunity to do it, so that's what we're here to make sure happens."
"There are some very beautiful spots, great waterfront access, everywhere but here, and we really need to close this gap," said Manhattan City Councilman Dan Garodnick.
Construction will begin in 2019 and should be completed by 2022.