An intriguing urban pond, previously formed under a leaking fire hydrant, finds a new home in a Brooklyn tree bed after city intervention.
In a creative turn of events, residents of Brooklyn’s Bedford-Stuyvesant neighborhood have crafted a new makeshift aquarium following the city’s decision to pave over the old site beneath a leaky fire hydrant. This unique pond had become a local curiosity, drawing visitors intrigued by its modest charm.
The previous makeshift pond, formed naturally by a leaky hydrant, was a neighborhood fixture where locals gathered, enriched by the steady stream of fresh water and low maintenance. However, city authorities decided to fill it due to safety concerns. Not disheartened, the residents quickly set up a new environment using waterproof liners, bath tiles, concrete blocks, and gravel to accommodate the goldfish in a nearby tree bed.
The reconstructed pond, completed within a few days, now homes around forty goldfish and features vibrant artificial plants and decorative stones. Pedro Zambrana, who hails from Barcelona, visited the site during his week-long stay in New York City, expressing his delight at this unique urban phenomenon.
Among those responsible for the maintenance of this urban aquarium is Devang Shah, a local resident. He is part of a group of volunteers committed to enhancing the pond’s sustainability with a solar-powered filtration system, replacing the temporary battery-powered one. With the arrival of winter, acquiring a heating system has become essential. Shah reveals plans for a potential livestream on social media platforms to share the pond with a global audience.
Despite the improvements, Shah reflected on the ease of managing the pond under the hydrant’s natural water flow. It provided a simple solution, eliminating the need for complex equipment. The new setup requires more effort for upkeep, such as manually feeding the fish and monitoring water quality.
This communal project has seen the pond evolve into a more elaborate site. Decorated seating areas and an official-looking sign labeled ‘Bed-Stuy Aquarium’ underscore the community’s commitment to this beloved feature. Shah and fellow residents remain enthusiastic about the prospects and continued evolution of this public aquarium, ensuring it remains a vibrant part of the neighborhood’s landscape.
The transformation of this urban goldfish pond in Brooklyn reflects the community’s ingenuity and dedication. Despite challenges, their efforts have resulted in a charming and unexpected urban attraction, demonstrating a commitment to maintaining local character and creativity.
Source: Local10
