The Central Park Conservancy: "It's Essential"

Bill Berliner Tree Tour

Philharmonic

Bethesda Fountain

Many people think of Central Park as the premier public green space in America, and at this point I would agree that this statement is unarguably true. However, what many people do not realize is why, how, and by whom Central Park is maintained as living work of art for the enjoyment of all. Honestly before arriving in New York City I was one of those people, but over the past week I have been exposed to a remarkable NON-PROFIT GROUP. Yeah, that's right non-profit, the majority of people entering the park believe that their taxes pay to keep this park beautiful. Although this may be the case in 99% of public parks this is not the case in Central Park. This is what makes Central Park an innovator in park operations and maintenance. The Conservancy is the sole reason for the park being what it is today, by providing 85% of the yearly $27 million dollar operating budget it is responsible for all basic care of the park.

Since the original selection of Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux's Greensward Plan in 1857 the park has undergone many declines and renewals in its appearance. The most recent of which occurred in the 1960s and 70s. During these years the parks lawns were neglected and trampled, while fountains and building were covered by with graffiti leaving the park in a state of disrepair which followed with a reputation for crime.

Finally, in 1975 when the park had reached it lowest point many groups in support of a better park pulled together and founded the Central Park Conservancy in 1980 with William Beinecke as Chairman and Betsy Barlow Rogers as Central Park Administrator. Over the next 28 years the park has worked to restore, manage, and enhance Central Park. To date they have invested over 500 million dollars into the park, thanks to the help of many donors. This money has went to projects such as restoring Belvedere Castle and an 18 million dollar renovation of the Great Lawn.

So next time your in Central Park and you throw a piece of trash on the ground, because you "pay" to keep the park clean remember what you read here. Maybe then you will go out of your way to thank the amazing people at the Central Park Conservancy, and to do your part to keep the park beautiful for future generations to come.

Over the past week I have been exposed to many of the various departments in the Central Park Conservancy and began to realize what it really takes to run an 840 acre park in the center of an urban setting. It is truly amazing and I will keep you updated on what unfolds over the next two weeks.