Conservatory Water Basin Restoration

Conservatory Water was originally constructed in the 1860s as a reflecting pool for a glass conservatory that was never built. By the 1870s, the pool had transformed into a model boat pond, becoming a well-known feature of the park. In 1910, the original mud bottom of the pond was replaced with concrete, and in 1929, the concrete walls and parapet were added as part of a significant renovation.

In 1916, a group of model boat enthusiasts founded the Central Park Model Yacht Club, which began organizing races that became increasingly popular throughout the 1940s. In 1954, the Kerbs Boathouse was built on the east side of Conservatory Water as a memorial to Jeanne E. Kerbs’s parents, and a small concession kiosk was added at the south end of the basin.

Although it continues to be a popular destination, the basin has had significant water leaking issues for several decades. This project will include a comprehensive waterproofing solution that includes replacing failing sections of the basin's concrete walls, replacing the deteriorated concrete basin floor and adding a waterproof liner, and resetting the basin’s coping stones. Site improvements will also include paving and curb reconstruction to increase accessibility, improved drainage and lighting, and repairing benches as needed.

Scope of Work

Basin Reconstruction and Repairs:

• Demolish and replace all remaining sections of the original concrete wall.
• Repair remaining concrete and stone masonry walls in place.
• Selectively reset and repair stone steps and replace joints.
• Reset coping in areas of wall replacement and replace coping joints.
• Remove the highly deteriorated, original concrete basin floor and replace it with a waterproof liner and a layer of bedding stone

Paving and Curbs:

• Reconstruct paths and curbs around perimeter of basin, with regrading as needed for accessibility.

Utilities:

• Repair or replace drainage structures and piping within limits of work.
• Replace path lighting in-kind and upgrade electrical infrastructure to conform to current NYC Department of Transportation standards.

Landscape Improvements and Site Furnishings:

• Enhance and restore lawns and plantings in the area adjacent to the basin perimeter.
• Repair, refinish, or replace benches as needed.
• Replace drinking fountains with code compliant and accessible models.