Since 2009 and 2010, when the first two phases of New York’s High Line opened, the city parkland has gained acclaim as an inspirational example of repurposed city infrastructure and space.

The final phase of the unusual park – which spreads along Manhattan’s western periphery atop a retired section of elevated rail – was finally opened to the public on Sunday, September 21 to great reviews among the New York media.

Like the High Line’s first two phases, the third stretch resulted from the collaboration of architects Diller Scofidio + Renfro, James Corner Field Operations and Dutch landscape and planting designer Piet Oudolf.

The final span of elevated rail flanks the vast Amtrak and Long Island rail yards, before finishing at 34th Street and 11th Avenue. The project stands as a valuable lesson in making the most of a city’s pre-existing armature and space.