Brooklyn Bridge Park Conservancy breaks records with recent gala

Selling out its annual black tie, fundraising event this year, the Brooklyn Bridge Park Conservancy raised a record-shattering $1 million at the fourth annual Brooklyn Black Tie Ball and after party on Thursday, October 6.

Started initially to help keep the conservancy’s vision of a neglected waterfront-turned-green-public-space alive, proceeds from the black tie event help keep Brooklyn Bridge Park (BBP) “vibrant, beautiful, and growing; directly supporting the Conservancy’s over 500 free and low cost activities and events,” according to BBP.

This year, the organization – which dates back 30 years – honored humanitarian and business executive Barry Sternlicht, chairperson and CEO of Starwood Capital Group and the founder of SH Group and 1 Hotels. Other distinguished guests included “The Americans” actors Keri Russel and Matthew Rhys along with Elettra Weidemann, model and food editor and comedian/actor Wyatt Cenac, who emceed the event.

“The annual Brooklyn Black Tie Ball has become a hallmark event for the conservancy,” said Nancy Webster, the Brooklyn Bridge Park Conservancy’s executive director. “We were elated to honor Barry Sternlicht and his philanthropic generosity and commitment to sustainability. His support will help ensure Brooklyn Bridge Park remains a world-class waterfront public space filled with first-rate programming that all ages can enjoy. Additionally, we were delighted to pay tribute to Regina Myer’s transformative vision in bringing the park to life and we wish her great success in her next endeavor.”

Myer, the outgoing president of Brooklyn Bridge Park, was honored for her years of service that helped to establish the park as a celebrated destination. Under her leadership, according to the conservancy, the park’s 85 acres were transformed from an inaccessible waterfront into a world-class park that now receives over 4 million visitors annually.

“The Brooklyn Black Tie Ball has become a wonderful autumn tradition at the Park and a great way to support the Conservancy’s programs that make BBP such a special place,” said Myer. “We congratulate honoree Barry S. Sternlicht, whose 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge is going to be a great addition to the park and to the neighborhood, and are grateful to everyone for their commitment to Brooklyn Bridge Park and the conservancy.”