The Manhattan Bridge is proudly displayed in the original photo by Barton Silverman, taken on Water Street & Dock Street in 1972. However, when one visits this site today, the bridge is covered by trees, a carousel, and the bright shine of the tower behind it. The surrounding warehouses remain architecturally the same, yet their purpose is entirely changed. St. Ann’s warehouse was abandoned and covered halfway up the first floor with overgrown weeds, but now is cleared and is a popular theater and garden space.

While the focal buildings remain largely the same from the original 1979 photo by Peter Van Wijk, the surrounding buildings have evolved into bigger and more modern structures. Additionally, more billboards and chains have popped up, such as the multiple smoke shops and Dunkin’ Donuts, while small places like the church, apartments, and small businesses have been taken over. Moreover, the advertisements have moved from painted on the side of the buildings to the more modern billboard. Furthermore, the styles, both in fashion and cars, have evolved since then. One can also see that in the present day, the green space on top of roofs and empty lots are being taken advantage of more often, although it is too early in spring to see lots of green.