Hudson Yards special district, encompassing W 30th to W 42nd Street and 9th to 11th Avenue, was created as part of an effort to grow Midtown’s central business district, and to transform the area into a mixed-used space and pedestrian friendly space. Such growth was made possible by the rezoning of Hudson Yards in 2005 and 2009, and the expansion of the no. 7 subway line to 34th Street and 11th Avenue. The rezoning and subway expansion allowed for future commercial and residential development, as well as increased the accessibility of the area, and future development, to the public. Along with residential and commercial development, key components of the expansion included the creation of new parks, public space, and cultural institutions. Learn more here or here.