Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir in Central Park, NYC

The Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir is a reservoir that is no longer in use as a water supply. It's a massive body of water that covers over 100 acres and holds over a billion gallons of water. Water access to the reservoir is not permitted to the public and is completely gated in, making it a haven for waterfowl and turtles.

It was 'retired' back in 1993 after it was determined that it was vulnerable to contamination and was also made obsolete by superior methods of supplying the water supply for the city. The reservoir was still considered a part of the city's water supply, for emergency use during droughts, until 1999. 

The reservoir used to be called the Central Park Reservoir, but in 1994 it was renamed in honor of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, the former First Lady and fashion icon.

If you're looking for a place to go for a run or walk, the reservoir has got you covered. There's a 1.6-mile track that circles the entire thing, and it's super popular with joggers and walkers alike. It attracts thousands of walkers and joggers every day.  It serves as the primary water supply for the park's other ponds and lakes.

Other facts about the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir:

Construction on the reservoir began in 1858, and it was completed in 1862. Irish immigrants were the main workers working on the reservoir during those years of construction. The reservoir was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, who were also responsible for the design of Central Park itself. The reservoir covers an area of 106 acres and has a maximum depth of 40 feet.

The reservoir was originally called the Croton Reservoir because it was fed by the Croton Aqueduct, which brought fresh water from the Croton River in Westchester County to New York City.

The reservoir has been featured in a bunch of movies and TV shows over the years, like "Sex and the City," "The Devil's Advocate," and "Law & Order." 

Some people have suggested turning the reservoir into a pool or recreational area, but there are concerns about water quality and safety. So for now, it's just a really cool spot to check out in the heart of Central Park.

Related: 131-Year-Old Reservoir Is Deemed Obsolete

The street view panorama below was taken during the January 2016 blizzard

More information about the reservoir and Central Park:
The Early History Of New York City’s Central Park
12 HIDDEN SECRETS in Central Park | New York City
Central Park Conservancy - Reservoir
The Central Park Reservoir

More Street Views of Central Park locations in Winter
Minton Tiles at Bethesda Arcade
The Mall and Literary Walk
Skater's Road