Albany Skyway

From Highway to Hideaway

The Albany Skyway is a creative urban transformation that opened in April 2022 in Albany, New York. What was once just another exit ramp from northbound Interstate 787 has been transformed into an elevated linear park where people can walk, relax, and enjoy the surroundings.

Stretching about half a mile, this elevated pathway creates a much-needed link between downtown Albany and the Hudson River waterfront, giving you easy access to Corning Riverfront Park and the Mohawk Hudson Hike Bike Trail. And yes, it's fully accessible - the designers made sure everyone can enjoy this space regardless of mobility needs.

What You'll Find There

As you walk along the Skyway, you'll notice thoughtfully designed landscaped areas that bring some welcome greenery to the urban environment. The plant beds change with the seasons, offering pops of color against the city backdrop.

Near the Broadway entrance, you can find a shade structure that comes in handy on sunny or rainy days. The amphitheater-style seating area offers a good spot to sit and enjoy panoramic views of the Hudson River.

The path itself is generous in width with a gentle slope that won't leave you winded, making it suitable for visitors of all fitness levels. In the evening, pedestrian lighting and colorful neon lights illuminate the Skyway, creating an interesting atmosphere after dark.

How People Use It

The Skyway represents both a practical connector and a destination in itself. You'll see locals using it as a convenient shortcut to reach the riverfront, while others come specifically to enjoy a leisurely stroll with a different perspective of their city.

Dog walkers particularly appreciate the space - their four-legged friends seem to enjoy the interesting sights and smells just as much as the humans enjoy the views. Families find it a safe place for children to explore, with plenty of room for little ones to move around without anyone feeling crowded.

Beyond Just a Path

While relatively modest in size, the Skyway adds a new recreational option to Albany and connects different parts of the city.

What makes this project special is how it reimagines urban infrastructure. Rather than demolishing the old to build something new, the Skyway preserves the existing structure but completely changes its purpose - from moving cars to moving people. It offers unique angles of the Hudson that you can't get elsewhere and strengthens the connections between Albany's various outdoor spaces, creating a more walkable, livable city for everyone to enjoy.