Image credit: NYC Department of Parks & Recreation.

The City plans on finding new operators for two famous New York City staples from the 1950s. On February 5, 2021, New York City Parks issued two requests for operation and maintenance of facilities within Central Park: Wollman Rink and the Friedsam Memorial Carousel.

Wollman Rink, gifted by Kate Wollman, originally opened on December 21, 1950, and became a staple of New York City winter activities. The Friedsam Memorial Carousel was originally made in 1908 but became a highlight of central park in the 1950s and has remained a popular attraction as one of the largest and most popular carousels in the country.

The requested concessionaires would be required to operate and maintain the recreational facilities and licensed premises within the park as well as other duties. For both facilities NYC Parks is looking for proposals with detailed plans, timetables for design and improvements, descriptions of potential new environmentally friendly practices. Plans for a programming component is encouraged for the Wollman Rink proposal. The position with Wollman Rink is for a five-year term while the Carousel position is a one to five-year term.

Responses to this request must be submitted electronically. And any interested parties are encouraged to attend upcoming proposer meetings. More information can be found on the New York City Parks Website.

Responses to the Friedsam Memorial Carousel proposal must be submitted prior to Friday, March 5, 2021. The remote proposer meeting for the Carousel will be held on February 22, 2021 at 2 p.m.

Responses to the Wollman Rink proposal must be submitted prior to Friday, March 19, 2021.

By: Patrick McNeill (Patrick is the CityLaw intern and a New York Law School student, Class of 2022.)