One Bayside spot looks better than ever.
The city’s parks commissioner joined Queens officials Monday at Bayside’s Oakland Lake to celebrate a $1.6 million reconstruction to improve water quality and improve pedestrian pathways around the lake.
The work was funded with $1.1 million allocated by the borough president and an additional $500,000 from the City Council.
As part of the project, portions of pathway around the lake were reconstructed and stone swales and drywells were installed to collect water seeping from surrounding slopes and divert the water from the path.
Additionally, invasive grasses were replaced by new native wetland plantings, the stream bed was re-established, drainage systems were cleaned, and the slope was stabilized with boulders.
NYC Parks Commissioner Mitchell J. Silver, Queens Borough President Melinda Katz, Congresswoman Grace Meng, Assemblyman Edward Braunstein, Councilman-elect Barry Grodenchik and Community Board 11 District Manager Susan Seinfeld were all present at the ribbon-cutting.
Silver said that the Parks Department was thankful to Katz and the City Council for supporting one of Queens’ most pristine natural areas.
“Oakland Lake is a breath of fresh air in the middle of New York City,” Silver said. “And just in time to take in the fall foliage reflecting on its calm waters, visitors can now enjoy restored pathways and new native plantings.
Katz said the reconstruction project has enhanced Oakland Lake, making it an even more pleasant experience for families.
“Oakland Lake has provided Queens residents and visitors with an oasis of tranquility in the midst of our densely populated borough and city,” said Katz.
Oakland Lake is a 15,000-year-old spring-fed glacial kettle pond located in Queens’ Alley Pond Park. The lake includes fish such as the bluegill carp, perch and bass, and the area also attracts local and migratory species of birds.
