September 16 | 6:30pm | 213 Water Street | Free
Brooklyn’s waterfront has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past century, shaped by changing industries, maritime commerce, environmental challenges, and community advocacy. But what comes next?
The program begins with a presentation by Dan Wiley, District Director for Congresswoman Nydia Velázquez, followed by a discussion, moderated by Julie Raskin the President and Chief Executive Officer of Waterfront Alliance, with waterfront experts, urban planners, and advocates about the policies, investments, and partnerships that have shaped Brooklyn’s shoreline—and will influence its future. The evening concludes with an audience Q&A and a reception.
Drawing on decades of experience in government, economic development, maritime transportation, and environmental leadership, panelists will explore how Brooklyn can balance a thriving working waterfront with ecological restoration, climate resilience, public access, and equitable economic growth.
Preregistration is encouraged. Walkups will be accommodated as possible. Tickets are distributed through Waterfront Alliance, visit their website below to sign up. Access to the program requires walking up six steps, with wheelchair access available via a platform lift.
This event is hosted by the Seaport Museum in partnership with American Planning Association NY Metro Chapter’s Environment and Waterfront Committees, Waterfront Alliance, and Resilient Red Hook.
About the Partners
American Planning Association’s New York Metro Chapter (APA-NYM) supports members, local communities, schools, and practicing professionals through advocating for good planning practice, hosting diverse events and facilitating professional development opportunities in New York City, Long Island (Nassau and Suffolk Counties), Hudson Valley East and the Hudson Valley West. The Chapter represents some 1,400 practicing planners and people involved in the planning and design of the region’s communities.
Waterfront Alliance has advocated for the New York–New Jersey region’s coastal resilience for nearly two decades in the face of climate change, equitable waterfront access, and a connected and economically sound working waterfront, and has prepared the next generation through its climate and waterfront education program. It has enlisted more than 1,100 Alliance Partners along the way. With expertise and a powerful track record in advocacy, policy, convening, and consensus-building, Waterfront Alliance has made the more than 1,600 miles of coastline it touches in the New York—New Jersey region more accessible and sustainable.
Resilient Red Hook is empowered by the spirit of unity that helped the Red Hook community survive Hurricane/Superstorm Sandy. Its vision for a resilient and thriving future is to work as a holistic community to strengthen Red Hook by minimizing differences and maximizing cooperation among all who live, work, and play there. Mindful of the growing climate-related risks to the beloved low-lying community and the immediate need for improved emergency preparedness measures, the organization’s actions will serve to help to develop measures that will protect the neighborhood from flood inundation, increase the safety of citizens, and move towards a resilient community.
Enjoy More That the Museum Offers
Access to the historic ships and exhibitions on view is not included with your event ticket. If you would like to explore more that the Museum has to offer, book in advance or ask Museum staff about General Admission tickets when you check in.
General Admission brings you aboard the 1885 tall ship Wavertree and 1908 lightship Ambrose at Pier 16, and into both exhibitions on view in the first-floor Schermerhorn Row galleries at 12 Fulton Street. General Admission also sets you on course to explore Maritime City, the Museum’s immersive, three-floor exhibition at A.A. Thomson & Co., located at 213 Water Street.
Want to experience even more?
Reserve your tickets for the landmark exhibition The Promise of Liberty: Words That Shaped a Nation. Book in advance and save with a discounted combo ticket that includes both General Admission and The Promise of Liberty.
Plan Your Visit
We look forward to welcoming you! Before your visit, please review the Visitor Guide and Frequently Asked Questions. You’ll find helpful information on ticketing and discounts, planning a family visit, directions and accessibility at each of our historic sites, the visitor code of conduct, what is and isn’t permitted across the Museum campus, tips for using technology during your visit, and more.

Ready for more?
Head over to our Programs and Events page to see what else is happening at the Museum. Sign up for an upcoming talk, learn more about visiting Wavertree, or explore our virtual offerings.

