Croton Water Filtration Plant

The Croton Water Filtration Plant is a water treatment facility buried beneath Van Cortlandt Park in the Bronx that purifies drinking water sourced from northern reservoirs. The facility employs sand filtration and ultraviolet light to prepare water for the city's households.

Construction of the facility began in the early 2000s to restore water from the Croton system back into the city's network. After completion, the water supply from this source became actively used again.

The facility demonstrates New York City's response to environmental regulations and public health requirements through infrastructure development beneath a public recreation area.

The facility lies beneath parkland and is normally not accessible to visitors. Those interested can explore the grounds from above or learn about its operations through educational resources.

The facility spans a vast underground area and was designed so the park above continues to function as public space. Few people realize while walking through the grass that such massive infrastructure lies hidden beneath their feet.

Location: New York City

GPS coordinates: 40.88600,-73.87881

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:06