Campers look at the newly restored Indian Lake in Crotona Park
The reopening of a lake in Crotona Park was a lesson in community development for a group of young Bronx campers. Students attending Phipps Community Development Corporation summer camp at PS 4 helped cut the ribbon last week on the restored Indian Lake.
“Before, the lake was full of trash,” a camper, Nahyomi Namour, said.
The 3.3 acre spring-fed lake was restored by the New York City Parks Department, the New York City Department of Environmental Protection, and several local parks groups. Camp directors asked students to attend the event to see how cooperation and commitment can positively affect their community.
“Having the kids realize that they can affect change is such a big plus,” said Ken Mullin, Phipps’ Program Director for Youth Services. “Our partnership with Crotona Park allows the kids to see change happen in their community. We want to leverage this to make change in other aspects of the community.”
Campers said they were impressed with the improvements made to the lake.
“The lake didn’t look good before,” a camper, Luis Irizarry, said. “Now the water looks fresh and clean. People can come here, look at the lake and feel relaxed. This will be a change because people will tell their friends and families to come to this peaceful place.”
The restoration will also promote a healthy lake ecosystem by diversifying flora and fauna in Crotona Park.
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