Built in the 1930s as an elevated passageway for freight trains, the High Line runs for 1.45 miles on the west side of Manhattan through West Chelsea and into the heart of the Meat Packing District. No trains have run on it in over 20 years and an urban wilderness has since seeded itself on the High Line's deserted tracks.

A grassroots organization, Friends of the High Line, staged a competition to promote its efforts to save the landmark and offer New Yorkers the opportunity to create a one-of-a-kind recreational amenity. They envision a grand, public promenade that can be enjoyed by all residents and visitors in New York City. There were 720 entries representing 36 countries.

Copley Wolff Design Groupês entry was based on the premise –High Time for the High Line.” It stressed unifying design elements, celebrating street crossing and connections to the street level, and encouraging 24/7 year round uses. Key elements of the design proposed engaging both the street level and the elevated surroundings in a bid to enliven the space as well as make it safe and convenient. The proposal also sought programming that would optimize both the linearity and the verticality of the space.