A decades-old debacle in New York City’s Central Park has become a fascinating footnote in American history. In 1986, Ed Koch, then mayor of New York, was facing widespread criticism for his administration’s botched attempt to rehabilitate the Wollman Rink. The project had begun six years earlier with the goal of replacing an outdated refrigeration system, but it quickly spiralled out of control due to mismanagement and cost-cutting measures.
The initial phase of the project involved installing 22 miles of new piping for Freon, a $20,000-per-year cost savings measure. However, subsequent contractors failed to complete the necessary paving work, leaving the pipes exposed to the elements. The situation worsened when engineers underestimated the amount of concrete required, leading to a subpar finish.
To rectify the situation, Koch was forced to abandon the project and revert to the original refrigeration system, incurring an additional $3 million in costs. Just as it seemed like all hope was lost, a local developer stepped in and offered to take control of the project, completing it for a fee and handing it back to the city.
Koch’s unorthodox arrangement with the developer has been hailed as a stroke of genius by some, allowing the city to sidestep the blame for the project’s failure. The incident highlights the enduring influence of cultural attitudes towards power and governance on American politics.
Source: https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2025/02/why-nothing-works-marc-dunkelman/681407