### Manhattan's Vessel Reopens With Enhanced Safety Measures

Tourists have returned to ascend Manhattan's distinctive Vessel sculpture, marking its reopening for the first time in three years. On Monday, the architectural marvel welcomed around 75 visitors who had secured tickets, eager to explore its renowned honeycomb design. Updated safety features, including flexible netting, have been introduced to mitigate the suicide risks that previously necessitated its closure.

Upon reopening, visitors swiftly navigated a security checkpoint before meandering through the interconnected stairways and observation platforms of the 150-foot (45-meter) tall structure. The netting, robust enough to prevent physical harm while still allowing phones to capture the stunning views, balances safety with the visitor experience.

"The pictures you can take from downstairs and upstairs, they are so beautiful," commented Alexandre Paes, a software engineer from Rio de Janeiro, underscoring the visual allure that remains intact even with the new safety measures.

Initially opened in 2019, the Vessel quickly became a popular attraction. However, it had to be closed after incidents where three visitors died by jumping from the structure. Subsequent reopening efforts included deploying security guards and banning solitary visits. Unfortunately, another fatality in 2021 led to another closure.

The redesigned Vessel now features floor-to-ceiling mesh barriers throughout, limiting access to higher levels but maintaining enough openness for visitors to enjoy and photograph the area. Andy Rosen, COO of Related Companies, which owns Hudson Yards where the Vessel is located, emphasized that the focus remains on visitor enjoyment and interaction with the structure.

Tourists appeared to embrace the renewed opportunity, capturing selfies and enjoying the dynamic light play off the surrounding skyscrapers. "The netting is good, not only for safety but for people like myself that are afraid of heights," noted Daniel Palumbo from Pennsville Township, New Jersey.

Shaped like a basket with a central void, the Vessel’s design invites exploration through its many staircases. The current restrictions allow visitors to access the highest point via a single section at the exit of the structure's elevator, offering striking views of Hudson Yards' tallest buildings.

Despite some view obstructions, visitors like Alexandre Paes found the experience worthwhile, though noting that other nearby vantage points, such as Little Island park, offer superior views of the Hudson River. Technical issues, like the elevator outage on Monday morning, did inconvenience some, leading to ticket refunds.

The Vessel is now open daily from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., with free admission for New York City residents on Thursdays, inviting both locals and tourists to experience its architectural splendor with enhanced safety and renewed enthusiasm.