Who Owns Little Island, NYC? A Tale of Tulips and Tycoons
So, you've been to Little Island, huh? That floating oasis of green in the middle of the concrete jungle. You've probably wondered, as we all have, "Who the heck thought this place up, and who actually pays the electric bill for all those twinkling lights?" Well, let's dive into the murky waters of island ownership.
The Diller-von Furstenberg Family Foundation: The Fairy Godparents of Little Island
If there's one name you need to remember, it's the Diller-von Furstenberg Family Foundation. These folks are the real-life fairy godparents of Little Island. Imagine a couple with more money than sense (in the best possible way) deciding to build a magical park for everyone. That’s basically what happened. Barry Diller, the former CEO of Fox, and his fashion designer wife, Diane von Furstenberg, decided New York needed a little more green and a whole lot more wow factor.
A Floating Park? No Problem!
Building a park on water is no small feat. It's like trying to build a sandcastle during a hurricane. But these folks weren't about to let a little thing like physics stop them. With the help of some seriously talented engineers and landscape architects, they managed to create this floating wonder. It's like someone took a giant flower pot, filled it with soil, and plopped it in the Hudson River. But hey, it works!
It's Free, But Someone's Paying the Bills
Now, the big question: If it's free to visit, who’s footing the bill? Well, the Diller-von Furstenberg Family Foundation is still the sugar daddy (or mommy, let's be fair) of the island. They cover the costs of upkeep, the performances, and even the plants. So, next time you're enjoying a picnic on Little Island, take a moment to appreciate the generosity of these two amazing humans.
How to Enjoy Little Island Like a Pro
- How to find the best spot for a picnic: Look for the grassy areas away from the main stage.
- How to catch a great show: Check the schedule online and arrive early to snag a good spot.
- How to avoid the crowds: Visit on a weekday or during off-peak hours.
- How to appreciate the architecture: Take a walk around the island and admire the unique design.
- How to support Little Island: Tell your friends about it, donate to the Diller-von Furstenberg Family Foundation, or simply enjoy it responsibly.
So, there you have it. Little Island is a testament to human ingenuity and generosity. It's a place where you can escape the city without leaving the city. And while we might not all be billionaires, we can certainly appreciate the beauty and wonder of this floating oasis.