I agree. Its good that the city is utilizing many of these piers towards the public sphere. Some of these piers are also going to be used as an extra source of affordable housing such as pier 40. Design wise, I think this is a success. Not overly flashy, and will fit in perfectly with the the rest of the Hudson River Park. Also, a fish habitat will be created between the pile fields of Pier 54 and 56.
Some extra info could be found for those interested:
http://www.hudsonriverpark.org/
Also to find out news about HR Park and some of the changes that are occurring.