NEW YORK, NY August 19, 2009 —A stretch of lower Manhattan along the East River is set to get a new, two-mile promenade. The project is meant to transform the waterfront into a more pedestrian and bike-friendly space.

City Planning Commissioner Amanda Burden says a newly constructed Pier 15 will have an education center and cafe and bring people right up to the water.

BURDEN: There'll be gigantic chaises, where you can look south into the harbor. And then you go to the upper level, where you'll have giant lawns to sunbathe and one of the most spectacular views in the whole world.

REPORTER: Mayor Bloomberg says the esplanade will eventually connect to Battery Park. The $148 million project is mostly supported with federal funds and is set to be finished by 2011. Officials say construction will generate 400 jobs.