Williamsbridge Oval

Williamsbridge Oval, located in the Norwood section of the Bronx, New York City, is a 19.7-acre recreational facility built on the former site of a reservoir. The park's history dates back to the late 19th century when the area was home to the Gun Hill Williamsbridge Reservoir, which was shut down and drained in 1925.

In the 1930s, as part of President Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal programs, specifically the Works Progress Administration (WPA), the site was transformed into a public park. Construction began in 1934, and the Williamsbridge Oval Park was completed in 1937. The park's design preserved the oval shape of the former reservoir, with its distinctive 46-foot high embankment.

The park features multiple large walking paths that circle its oval shape. An inner walking path at ground level encircles the various recreational facilities, while an elevated upper walking path, lined with benches, provides a more secluded area for walking, running, or pushing strollers. The park's main entrance is marked by a large concrete tunnel located at the corner of Bainbridge Avenue and Van Cortland Ave. East, which serves as both a gateway and a shelter during sudden rainstorms.

Over the years, Williamsbridge Oval has undergone several renovations to maintain and improve its facilities. In recent years, it has received multi-million dollar upgrades to enhance its amenities and ensure it continues to serve the community effectively. The park remains a vital recreational space for residents of the Norwood neighborhood and surrounding areas of the Bronx.