U Thant Island, Artificial island in East River, Manhattan, United States.
Located between Roosevelt Island and Manhattan, U Thant Island spans 100 by 200 feet with a navigational beacon standing 57 feet tall.
The island emerged from landfill during the Steinway Tunnel construction in the 1890s, initially named Belmont Island after financier August Belmont Jr.
A meditation group dedicated the island to U Thant in 1977, honoring the former United Nations Secretary-General who contributed to international diplomacy.
The island functions as a protected bird sanctuary, restricting public access while providing nesting grounds for double-crested cormorants and migratory species.
The waters surrounding this smallest Manhattan island contain reefs attracting numerous striped bass, making it a preferred location for local fishing activities.
Location: Manhattan
Location: New York County
Elevation above the sea: 3 m
Made from material: landfill
Operator: New York City Department of Parks and Recreation
GPS coordinates: 40.74660,-73.96439
Latest update: May 27, 2025 06:59
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