Broadway, one of the principal business thoroughfares of New York, United States, extending in a generally north-south direction. Laid out in the early 17th century by the Dutch, Broadway grew in length as the city developed from a small settlement on the southern tip of Manhattan Island. It now extends 27 km (17 mi) to the city's northern boundary in the Bronx. In lower Manhattan, where it passes through the financial district, Broadway is the traditional route over which national heroes and distinguished guests are escorted. It enters the heart of the commercial and garment district at Herald Square on 34th Sreet. Between 42nd Street, where it passes through Times Square, and 50th Street, Broadway forms the central thoroughfare of New York's theatre district. This stretch is one of the most highly concentrated entertainment centres in the United States, and includes official Broadway theatres, smaller off-Broadway playhouses, cinemas, restaurants, and bars. The city of New York has attempted a major revitalization and development of the theatre district since the 1980s. Also located on Broadway are the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts and Columbia University (1754).