N
ew Yorkers are in for a treat as the northern edge of Central Park gets a major makeover. The $160 million Davis Center at the Harlem Meer is set to open on April 26, bringing with it a state-of-the-art pool and ice rink that will serve thousands of visitors.

    The Gottesman Pool, designed by Susan T. Rodriguez and Mitchell Giurgola Architects, can accommodate up to 1,000 swimmers at a time and offers a cool respite from the summer heat. In winter, it transforms into an ice rink, while in spring and fall, it becomes the Harlem Oval, an artificial turf field for community activities.

    The Davis Center is a public-private collaboration led by the Central Park Conservancy with $60 million from the city and $100 million in private donations. It replaces the aging Lasker Rink and Pool, which had fallen into disrepair. The facility's design prioritizes community needs, informed by years of dialogue with Harlem and East Harlem residents.

    The pool will offer free Learn to Swim lessons and aquatic programs through early September, addressing a long-standing need in the community. Year-round offerings will feature fitness classes, art workshops, and ecological tours, with a focus on engaging local youth.

    A new shoreline boardwalk winds along the Meer, inviting pedestrians to explore the park's northeastern corner, a 20-minute bike ride from Midtown. The facility's design also prioritizes sustainability, targeting LEED Gold certification with features like a green roof planted with native species and a skylight that bathes the interior in natural light.

    The Davis Center is a testament to what makes New York City more livable and the best place to raise a family, according to Mayor Eric Adams. The community celebration on April 26 will launch the center's public debut, featuring local performances, food, and hourly tours.