Name: Martin Nembhard

Company Affiliation + Job Title:  Vice President of Park Operations, Friends of the High Line

Social: @marty_mcfly

What do you do and how did you get here?

I’m VP of Operations for Friends of the High Line, the conservancy that operates the High Line Park. Before this I was Park Manager at Bryant Park in midtown. I enjoy what I do, good public spaces are vital to the energy and character of this city.

What do you love about Meatpacking?

I love that it’s actually a cool neighborhood. There are really great stores, restaurants, cafes, bars, boutiques, galleries, etc. frequented by smart, fashionable people and the area is a top destination both day and night.

If you had 15 minutes, how will you spend it in the neighborhood?

If the weather is nice, I’ll grab a cup of tea to go and do some people watching in one of the public plazas.

If you had a few hours in the neighborhood, how would you ideally spend the day?

I would definitely invite a friend to join me to walk the High Line, visit the Whitney Museum, grab something to eat and closer to sunset, definitely a drink.

Where do you go to escape the crowds? People watch?

The cobblestone plaza on Gansevoort Street, between Hudson and Greenwich Streets (Gansevoort Plaza) provides a good balance of personal space and people watching. It is just busy enough without being overwhelming.

What’s your most memorable moment or experience in Meatpacking?

There are a lot of good experiences here and I think it really comes down to the people in the area. The majority of them are friendly and interesting. Good energy makes for these good moments.

Where will you recommend for a great cocktail or bite?

In the warmer months I like the Studio Cafe on the 8th floor of the Whitney Museum. The elevated views of the High Line and entire neighborhood are fantastic.

Of all the personalities in Meatpacking (whether you know the person or not), whom would you want to grab a drink with? And where? 

I love hanging out with my pal Lauren, the mayor of the area. A great person.

You’ve got a big job!  When you’re out just doing you, what does that look like?

Street art, urban exploration and reading.