Landmarked High Bridge water tower opens for tours
Every now and then, the NYC Parks Department allows the public free access up the winding metal staircase to the top of the Highbridge Tower in Washington Heights.
Built in 1872 as part of the then-new Croton Aqueduct system, its on the National Register of Historic Places -- along with the nearby elevated water conduit, the High Bridge. Construction of the High Bridge itself started in 1839 -- following the cholera epidemics of the 1830s and the Great Fire of 1835.
The tower draws big crowds during events such as the annual Open House New York, but this past Sunday only saw about a dozen people willing to climb the stairs.
Once at the top, some of the windows are open, offering views down toward Midtown, over to New Jersey and even the current and future Yankee Stadiums.
The bridge is currently closed to the public for renovations, but will eventually reopen for pedestirian access and a bikeway.
See the NYC Parks list of other upcoming tours and events.
