[image]
[title]Since 2010, the Kate Wollman Rink has been closed to the public as the southeastern corner of Prospect Park undergoes a transformation—the first major upgrade to the park in more than 50 years. When it finally reopens in the fall of 2013 (nearly a year behind schedule), the renamed Lakeside complex will feature a number of new amenities: two new ice-skating rinks (one of which will be covered), a roller-skating rink, and buildings and classroom spaces. Additionally, the new center will help restore this particular corner of Prospect Park to its former glory. Several of the Olmsted and Vaux–designed elements, such as Music Island, were destroyed when urban planner Robert Moses built the Wollman Rink was built by urban planner Robert Moses in 1961; these will be restored, and the area will gain more than three acres of parkland. And even more Brooklynites will be able to enjoy the space: The Prospect Park Alliance estimates that capacity will triple once the complex is completed.
The Prospect Park Alliance has compiled a video that further explains the area’s development, and if you’d like to donate to the project, you can do so through the Alliance’s website.