With funding from the New York City Council, the Alliance used this project as an opportunity to demonstrate sustainable practices. The renovated Wellhouse features composting toilets, the first in a New York City public park. These toilets use 97% less water than a typical toilet, and convert waste into compost. Estimates project the facility will reduce water entering the New York City sewer system by 250,000 gallons. New full-time "residents' in the Wellhouse, in the form of thousands of worms, rest in the composting tanks beneath the facility. In 10 years, they will produce life-enriching compost.



Since this was the first composting restroom in a New York City public park, it was important that construction went smoothly. Many techniques were used to preserve the structure. For example, a deficient retaining wall behind the facility was restored. In addition, underpinning occurred carefully, in stages, to protect the Wellhouse foundation and superstructure.



Along with promoting sustainability, the Alliance aimed to restore the Wellhouse's historic elements. A new roof was installed, brickwork repaired, and beautiful portico recreated in period-appropriate colors, using historic

photos as a guide. The renovation garnered positive attention from the public, the media, and park staff.