NYC seeks design ideas for Central Park Reservoir gatehouses
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NEW YORK (PIX11) — The New York City Department of Environmental Protection is seeking ideas for restoring and possibly converting two historic gatehouses outside Central Park’s reservoir.
DEP is seeking ideas for developing the spaces outside the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir into multipurpose educational areas. Ideas are due by Monday, April 7.
“New York City’s water supply system is the lifeblood of the five boroughs, but much of it is unseen by the public, and we hope to be able to convert these historic gatehouses,” said DEP Commissioner Rohit T. Aggarwala. “We welcome all ideas about how best to utilize these unique buildings located in a high-traffic area to celebrate an essential part of both the city’s past and our future.”
The reservoir, constructed between 1858 and 1862, holds the city’s water supply, sourced from Westchester and Putnam counties. As the Big Apple expanded, more upstate reservoirs and tunnels were built, eventually rendering the in-city reservoir unnecessary.
The 106-acre reservoir is 40 feet deep and holds over one billion gallons of water. The gatehouses house pipes and other infrastructure, according to Central Park.
Any restoration ideas submitted must comply with DEP policies as well as state and federal regulations.
The reservoir was named after Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis in 1994 in honor of her contributions to the city. Jackie O used to jog there.
To submit ideas, click here.
Matthew Euzarraga is a multimedia journalist from El Paso, Texas. He has covered local news and LGBTQIA topics in the New York City Metro area since 2021. He joined the PIX11 Digital team in 2023. You can see more of his work here.