Unisphere Fountains Surge Back To Life
By Jessica Ablamsky
For the first time since the 1964 World's Fair, residents and tourists visiting Flushing Meadows Corona Park will be able to enjoy the iconic Unisphere in all its glory.
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| Borough President Helen Marshall, City Parks Commissioner Adrian Benepe, Assemblywoman Nettie Mayersohn, Sen. Frank Padavan, Assemblyman Jeff Aubry and Queens Parks Commissioner Dorothy Lewandowski unveil the restored fountain.
Photo by Jessica Ablamsky |
After what has been a tough summer for the local foliage, on a rainy Thursday morning the newly restored fountain was turned on and fully functional for the first time in 46 years.
"In the interest of stirring up the rain gods, we are going to do something very important in just a few minutes," said City Parks Commissioner Adrian Benepe, announcing the eagerly anticipated event.
The nearly $2 million project, funded by grants from Mayor Mike Bloomberg and Queens Borough President Helen Marshall, included work on the fountain's joints, pumps, and was topped off by a fresh coat of paint. The rehabilitation will allow park visitors to see the impressive display daily.
"Flushing Meadows Corona Park literally rose from the ashes to be the oasis that was home to the 1939 and 1964 World's Fair," Marshall said. "You've given me the privilege of spending your money, and I've spent it well here in this park."
The ribbon-cutting ceremony on Aug. 12 was attended by a slew of Queens' elected officials, many of whom were at the 60s-era World Fair.
For State Sen. Frank Padavan (R-Bellerose), the restoration brought back memories. In 1964, he was working for Westinghouse as an electrical engineer assigned to the World's Fair.
"I know exactly when this was built and how it was built," Padavan said. "I enjoy coming here."
For those who have yet to see the fruits of this most recent labor, Padavan recommends the view at night.
Reach Reporter Jessica Ablamsky at jablamsky@queenstribune.com or (718) 357-7400, Ext. 124.