Lower Manhattan is thriving. In 2007, nearly 6 million people visited Lower Manhattan, drawn by downtown attractions and events. According to the Downtown Alliance, hotel occupancy rates reached highs of 84 percent in 2007 and visitor counts have grown sharply since 2003. They are expected to more than double upon completion of the World Trade Center Museum and Memorial--a projected 12 million annual visitors are expected to head downtown by 2012.

To accommodate this influx, GGP will build two hotels as part of its Seaport redevelopment. A small boutique hotel will feature an eclectic mix of bars and restaurants for both casual and gourmet dining experiences. Designed to evoke the Seaport’s rich maritime history, the boutique hotel’s two low-rise buildings—linked by two sky bridges—will be located on the pier and will feature materials and structural details reminiscent of ship masts and utilitarian port equipment.

The hotel/residential building will serve as a business-class hotel located on the north side of the pier just outside the historic district. This slender building will feature conference spaces, meeting rooms, 24-hour business services, and multiple dining options. At its base, a three-story specialty retailer will create a new shopping destination for hotel guests and New Yorkers.

The maritime-inspired designs for both hotels will complement their unique locations above water, and each room will afford stunning views of New York Harbor, Brooklyn, and the Manhattan skyline. Guests and area residents also will be able to take in the iconic vistas from the boutique hotel’s rooftop lounge.

By creating hotels with different styles and amenities, the new Seaport will serve guests from around the world with luxury accommodations, 24-hour services, casual and fine dining options, and some of the best views in New York City.