North Meadow Center – Central Park

Building Name

North Meadow Center

Architect

Frederick Law Olmsted
Calvert Vaux

Year(s) Built

1910

Designation

Central Park
Scenic Landmark

Project Information:

A building constructed c. 1910, within an English Romantic style public park, designed in 1857 by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux. Application is to modify masonry openings, replace infill, and install retaining walls, storage enclosures, paving and fencing.

LPC Hearing: 06/28/22 (Positive Report)

FRIENDS' Testimony:

Central Park is one of New York City’s largest and most beloved landmarks, and FRIENDS appreciates the city’s efforts to improve every element of the park by making it more accessible and inclusive. As it stands, the North Meadow Center has been used to support park operations in an ad hoc manner resulting in an unsightly landscape. The proposed alterations represent a significant improvement of this haphazard center.

FRIENDS’ Preservation Committee does not oppose the modifications of masonry openings and infills. However, we take issue with the excessive use of chainlink fences, especially in areas where a taller fence isn’t required, around the storage and cart charging areas. The applicant should not rely on vegetation to hide this inappropriate element, and should explore a more pleasing solution, matching the existing detailed metal fence. Additionally, we question the use of containers for storage, and would have hoped for a more permanent solution.

LPC Hearing: