Central Park Harlem Meer: Davis Center

The Central Park Harlem Meer Davis Center is a landmark $160 million redevelopment project that reimagines the northern edge of Central Park, replacing the outdated Lasker Rink and Pool with a year-round, environmentally integrated recreation facility. Led by the Central Park Conservancy in collaboration with Susan T. Rodriguez Architecture & Design and Mitchell Giurgola Architects, this transformation merges cutting-edge design with natural landscape restoration—highlighting the vital role of green infrastructure in modern urban projects.

At the heart of this sustainability-driven effort is Adaptive Green, the premier green roof design-build firm. Adaptive Green played a critical role in the installation and technical execution of the Davis Center’s signature intensive green roof system, the project’s most prominent feature.

The green roof, built with the American Hydrotech Garden Roof Assembly, spans over 25,000 square feet of intensive vegetated space and is supported by 40,000 square feet of terraced geofoam, ensuring seamless integration into Central Park’s terrain. This living roof not only supports native plantings and habitat creation but is also maintained through an advanced greywater and stormwater irrigation system, exemplifying next-generation water management solutions.

As a certified Local Business Enterprise (LBE), Adaptive Green’s involvement reflects a commitment to both environmental sustainability and community-based economic participation, aligning with the project’s broader goals under a Project Labor Agreement.

The Central Park Davis Center green roof sets a new standard for urban park infrastructure—blending ecological function, architectural beauty, and community benefit. Adaptive Green is proud to be part of a transformative project that redefines how green building can support public space, environmental health, and urban resilience.