Preservation Strategies Contemplate by Central Park Conservancy Post-Renovation Period
In the heart of New York City, Betsy Smith, the president and CEO of the Central Park Conservancy, is steering the care and protection of one of the nation's most-visited urban parks. With over 40 million visitors each year, Central Park is a cherished oasis in the city that never sleeps.
Smith, who took the helm of the Conservancy in 2018, launched "A Plan for Stewardship of Central Park, 2020-2027," in 2020. This comprehensive plan, developed in-house without the aid of consultants, was based on the need to care for and protect Central Park, rather than just restoring it.
The plan, which includes about 25 specific objectives under six pillars, has made significant progress. Five years into the plan, almost all initiatives have been completed. One of the most notable achievements is the completion of the Davis Center, a state-of-the-art facility that replaced the Lasker Pool and Rink on the park's northern end.
Under Smith's leadership, the Conservancy is also close to raising the money set out to support the plan. This includes assuring long-term financial sustainability, one of the plan's six objectives.
Smith's commitment to the park is evident in her daily routine. She rides a golf cart through the park to stay familiar with its needs and those of its users. This hands-on approach has drawn fierce criticism, but Smith remains undeterred.
Looking to the future, Smith has plans for an overhaul of Wollman Rink on the park's southern end. Last month, she and the Central Park Conservancy voiced support for a City Council bill that would ban horse carriages, which is a step towards modernising the park's amenities.
As the steward of Central Park, Smith continues to face challenges and seize opportunities. Her dedication to the park and its visitors is unwavering, and her leadership has led to significant progress in the care and protection of this beloved urban oasis.
