Imagine going to New York City and having a place to go that feels as if you are at a much quieter destination. While in the past this may have seemed as if it was impossible, but a not so new area just opened in one of the most well-known parks in the world. After being closed to the public for close to 80 years, locals and tourists can now visit a part of Central Park in New York that has been closed to the public. Here’s what you need to know about the “Secret Sanctuary”.
Location And Scenic Views
Located on a peninsular, the Hallett Nature Sanctuary overlooks a pond and offers never before seen views of the city. Visitors can not only see a whole host of wildlife, including many varieties of birds, they can get a stunning view of a nearby waterfall. There’s also a nature trail to walk around the area.
A Revitalization Projects Brings New Life To The Area
The sanctuary was closed back in 1934 with hopes of making it a bird refuge. This area received minimal maintenance from the park and ended up being fenced off because it was overgrown and became unsafe and too much to try to maintain. However, when renovations started in the park in 2001, those spearheading this project saw the sanctuary’s potential and decided to clean up the area and make it accessible to visitors once again.
A Welcome Escape From The Busyness Of The City
This urban area is a welcome addition to the bustling New York City where natural areas are rare. One of the goals of this project was to offer a bit of tranquility and peacefulness for visitors to enjoy. Unlike other areas of Central Park, the sanctuary seems more enclosed and secluded than other places of the park that tend to be busy, and often times, crowded.
Cost And Preparation To Open To Visitors
The project took 15 years to complete and $40 million. It was part of the revitalization project for Central Park. While a decade and a half seems like a long time, the 4-acre area was virtually impassable previously with vegetation and weeds overtaking the entire area and was in need of general repair to make it safe for visitors.
Currently Hallett Nature Sanctuary is open on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 2 p.m. until 5 p.m. Starting on July 1 the sanctuary will also be open on Sundays from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m.
