CENTRAL PARK — The Central Park reservoir running track reopened Wednesday after nearly a year of renovations.
The 1.58-mile long track, which wraps around the Central Park Reservoir between 86th and 96th streets, was re-paved in five consecutive stages and now has a new concrete edge along its sides, said a spokeswoman from the Central Park Conservancy, which oversaw the $3 million project.
In addition, more signs clarifying the rules of the track were put up, as well as new plantings along the sides.
The track had an uneven and rutted surface that often caused large puddles, creating challenges for runners and walkers, the Conservancy said. The work was aimed at fixing erosion and drainage issues by smoothing out the path and creating a stronger border.
The Conservancy is also funding the addition of four new staffers who will dedicate their time to maintaining the new track. The crew "will cover everything from maintenance and upkeep to reminding people about the rules and lanes," said a spokeswoman.
Throughout the project, runners were diverted to the neighboring Bridle Path while repair work occurred in chunks.
"Not only do people get a workout from their time spent on the track, they develop a lifetime of memories that are stronger than any gym membership could ever provide," said Parks Commissioner Mitchell Silver in a statement.
