"The Reservoir" by lharkin05
Reservoir
This cherished recreational space was once a vital water source for residents.
Located mid-park between 86th and 96th Streets, the Reservoir, which spans 106 acres at 40 feet deep, holds over a billion gallons of water and covers about one-eighth of Central Park's total area. It's encircled by a recently resurfaced 1.58-mile track which offers panoramic views of the city skyline from multiple vantage points.
Officially named the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir in 1994, it has long been a magnet for joggers and walkers, including notable figures like its namesake, Jackie Kennedy Onassis. It's also popular among birdwatchers, since it's a great location to spot herons, egrets, coots, and loons.
Constructed between 1858 and 1862, the Reservoir was an important component of the Croton Aqueduct project - a system which was designed to bring fresh water from the Croton River to New York City. It was built to serve as one of two receiving reservoirs within Central Park's boundaries, the other being a smaller, rectangular basin located in what is now the Great Lawn.
By the early 20th century, the current Reservoir had become the sole remnant of the original water system, as improvements to the city's water supply infrastructure made the smaller reservoir unnecessary. It supplied fresh water to the city until 1993, when it too was decommissioned due to ongoing infrastructure expansion and concerns about algae contamination.
Today the Reservoir continues to play a role in Central Park's ecosystem by distributing water to other areas, including the Pool, the Loch, and the Harlem Meer.
The resurfacing of the track in May of 2024 was prompted by the need to address wear and tear from years of heavy use. The renovation aimed to rectify safety concerns and improve drainage issues, ensuring a smoother and safer experience for users.
The Reservoir continues to serve as a beloved destination in every season, bringing cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, vibrant hues in autumn, and reflective waters in winter.